A formal alliance could present problems.
Here s What You Need to Remember: Russia could turn to China but as noted if war did come it would just prove to be another alliance that wouldn’t offer Moscow much except words. It would be very easy to suggest that China wouldn’t hesitate to show the world her ingratitude, and if so no one would be astonished.
Last month, Russian President Vladimir Putin suggested that a military alliance between Moscow and China was possible, but added that both sides “in general” have no need for an alliance. In addition to a lack of actual need for such a formal alliance, some experts suggest it could “tie Russia’s hands” and potentially scare off traditional partners.