China's nuclear expansion and Russia ties raise global stakes
China possesses 600 nuclear warheads and is developing new intercontinental missiles, according to a report released by the Pentagon on Wednesday. The document also discusses issues of military corruption and China's increasing cooperation with Russia.
China currently holds 600 nuclear warheads and is actively working on new intercontinental missiles. In comparison to previous data, the number of Chinese warheads has risen by 100. China plans to expand its arsenal further by 2035.
China's increasing military ambitions
The Pentagon report indicates that China is developing new types of ballistic missiles, including intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs), which require increased production of nuclear weapons. China now has the largest navy in the world, and its air force is on par with American standards.
However, the Chinese military faces challenges with corruption among high-ranking military officers and officials. "This wave of corruption touches every service in the PLA, and it may have shaken Beijing's confidence," the report states.
Cooperation with Russia and challenges for Beijing
The Pentagon observes that China is deepening its collaboration with Russia, including backing its military industry. At the same time, Russia's partnership with North Korea is raising concerns in Beijing. The potential transfer of weapons technology or dual-use goods by Russia, which could bolster Pyongyang's nuclear weapons program, contradicts China's publicly stated opposition to nuclear weapons on the Korean Peninsula.
China aims to establish a new world order, as the current international system is viewed as limiting its strategic ambitions. Cooperation with Russia is part of this plan, although Beijing does not accept all of Moscow's actions, especially those related to North Korea. The Pentagon report highlights that Russia's alliance with North Korea poses "a risk to its reputation as a responsible great power."
