China, Russia bolster ties to counter US as tensions rise

China and Russia have bolstered their defense ties in a move to counter what they claim is a growing military threat from the U.S.

"China and Russia have been strategic partners for many years," Shoigu said. "Today, in conditions of increasing geopolitical turbulence and growing conflict potential in various parts of the world, the development of our interaction is especially relevant."

The top U.S. adversaries said the agreement was needed to combat a "significant increase" in the number of American bombing operations carried out near both nations.