Part 6/18:
This internal mistrust within Russia hints at potential cracks in the so-called "friendship" between Moscow and Beijing. Some U.S. officials speculate that Russia’s growing unease with Chinese espionage might be exploited to create a wedge—possibly encouraging Russia to distance itself from Beijing. However, many experts recognize that Putin values Chinese support so highly that he’s willing to accept risks, including internal vulnerabilities and external threats, to maintain the alliance.