Russia is preparing to bolster its military capabilities in the Far East in response to the increasing militarization of Asia by the United States.
Raise Defense Against China
Alexander Lomanov, director of the Asia-Pacific Studies Center at the Primakov National Research Institute of World Economy and International Relations in Russia, emphasized that the formation of anti-China military alliances poses a significant threat to Russian regions, according to URA.
As tensions rise, President Vladimir Putin is scheduled to attend the Eastern Economic Forum (EEF) amid ongoing sanctions and strained relations with the West.
Lomanov predicts that the next few years will see a pressing need for Russia to enhance its defense capabilities—not against China, but in anticipation of U.S. military deployments in the region.
A Long-Term Comprehensive Strategy
Lomanov noted that since the end of the Cold War, there had been hopes for a stable and prosperous Asia. However, recent developments suggest a return to confrontation.
The U.S. aims to form alliances with countries like South Korea and Japan to counter China, but this could also place Russian territory at risk from American missile systems.
Despite assurances from the U.S. that missile defenses in Europe are not aimed at weakening Russia, Lomanov argues that the narrative of these systems being solely anti-China is no longer credible.
He warns that the proximity of U.S. strike systems could escalate regional tensions, creating an unstable security environment.
Moreover, Lomanov believes that the situation in the Far East will require Russia to adopt a long-term, comprehensive strategy to address these emerging threats.
As the U.S. continues its policy of containment against China, the implications for regional security are expected to intensify, compelling Russia to strengthen its defenses in the coming years.
