China Announces Naval Exercises with Russia and South Africa

Bloomberg news reported on February 19, 2023, that China has announced plans to hold naval exercises with Russia and South Africa from February 20-27. The drills, which will involve a destroyer, a frigate, and a supply vessel, are intended to protect maritime economic activities and promote defense and security cooperation among BRICS members. The exercises will take place off the coasts of Durban and Richards Bay in South Africa. This announcement comes amid US warnings to China against providing lethal aid to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, with Secretary of State Antony Blinken claiming that the US has information suggesting China may be considering.