Together and Apart? The Evolving Sino-Russian Relationship

A new consensus is emerging among academics and policymakers that China and Russia have formed an alignment to undermine the international order led by the United States.  The books reviewed in this essay suggest the reality is more complex. China and Russia collaborate most closely in the realm of security because both feel pressured by the United States in areas bordering their homelands: East Asia and the former Soviet Union. Their economic cooperation is also increasing. However, China sells Russia industrial and consumer goods and buys energy and raw materials. This replicates Russia’s traditional relationship with Europe, although China has taken steps to correct the disproportion. Finally, few people in China and Russia are interested in the other’s language and culture. A common national history of rise and fall—and rise again—is a good starting point for building lasting ties, but there is a long way to go.