China’s relationship with Russia is often misunderstood as a simple anti-US alliance, but Beijing’s strategy is more balanced and pragmatic. China simultaneously engages economically with the United States while deepening strategic ties with Russia. Through Russia, China secures energy, geopolitical influence, and leverage in Eurasia, especially as Moscow grows more dependent under Western sanctions. However, the partnership is asymmetric: Russia relies far more on China than vice versa. Rather than a formal alliance, the relationship reflects a calculated arrangement serving China’s long-term economic and strategic interests.