Russia-China Ties 'Stronger Than Ever' as Sanctions Backfire, Ambassador Claims

Western sanctions aren't weakening the bond between Beijing and Moscow—they're making it stronger. That's the defiant message from Russia's ambassador to China, Igor Morgulov, who said on Tuesday, December 24, 2025, that the partnership has reached its 'highest level in history'.

A Partnership Forged by Pressure

Addressing a forum at Renmin University of China, Morgulov argued that sanctions have fostered closer dialogue and higher levels of mutual trust. According to the SCMP, he portrayed the deepening partnership as a response to efforts aimed at constraining both countries’ technological development. In an 'extremely complex' international environment, he said the two nations have established efficient communication channels and reliable bilateral settlement mechanisms.

A key indicator of this shift is their move away from the dollar. 'Almost all bilateral trade is now conducted in local currencies,' Morgulov stated, adding that the two economies are 'complementary, with broad and multidimensional space for cooperation'.

The West's Counter-Narrative

This declaration comes amid sustained pressure on China from Western nations. Beijing has been criticized for not condemning Russia's invasion of Ukraine. It also faces accusations of selling drone components and 'dual-use' technologies to Russia, leading to sanctions on some Chinese entities and individuals.

China has repeatedly denied these accusations. Morgulov asserted that despite the pressure, ties would continue to develop in a 'steady and dynamic manner'.