modernization effort. It also is an acknowledgement that the PLA feels itself to be behind the world’s most capable militaries and that they have not yet achieved that standard.
SLOGAN | ARTICULATION |
“Five Incapables” |
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“Two Incompatibles” |
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“Two Big Gaps” |
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“Two Inabilities” |
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“Three Whethers” |
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SPECIAL TOPIC: PRC SUPPORT TO RUSSIA IN ITS WAR AGAINST UKRAINE
The PRC probably was caught off guard by Russia’s war on Ukraine in February 2022, which occurred 20 days after Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit to Beijing and the signing of a “no limits” partnership. Although Russia’s was on Ukraine has tested the strength of the elevated relationship, the PRC has sought to preserve its close ties with Russia while promoting its own image as a responsible great power and its “neutrality” in the war. Xi has also stood by Putin as the war entered its second year and resisted Western pressure to isolate and impose costs on Russia for violating Ukraine’s sovereignty. The PRC’s perception that Washington and NATO are responsible for starting the conflict, along with its sympathy for Russia’s security concerns, has driven the PRC’s response to the conflict.
To provide diplomatic cover for Russia, Beijing has parroted Russian narratives when they align with the PRC’s criticism of the United States and refrained from condemning its conduct or
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OFFICE OF THE SECRETARY OF DEFENSE
Annual Report to Congress: Military and Security Developments Involving the People's Republic of China