The deployment of a Sino-Russian naval flotilla near Alaska last week underlines the growing threat those nations pose to America.
Eleven Russian and Chinese naval vessels sailed together near the Aleutian Islands. They were shadowed by four U.S. Navy destroyers. It is not publicly known if any Russian or Chinese submarines were there beneath the surface, and the U.S. Navy would probably not confirm it if there were. Still, Beijing and Moscow are clearly sending a stark message that they are cooperating as anti-American allies.
Washington can't afford to ignore the implications.
The key takeaway from China and Russia's escalating military cooperation is the most obvious one — that it shows why the U.S. needs to be better prepared for conflict with both these powers, not just one. Contrary to the delusion of some, Moscow is not America's friend. It is Beijing's subordinate partner.
