SINO-RUSSIA CYBER ALLIANCE: AI-DRIVEN THREATS TO US NATIONAL SECURITY

Abstract

The Sino-Russian cyber alliance represents a formidable challenge to U.S. national security, characterized by its focus on leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance cyber warfare capabilities. This partnership exploits vulnerabilities in democratic institutions, targets critical infrastructure, and undermines global stability. By analysing the evolution of this alliance and its AI-driven strategies, this research examines the historical and contemporary dimensions that underpin their objectives to counter U.S. dominance and promote a multipolar world order. The study explores how AI technology has enabled China and Russia to conduct advanced cyber operations, including precision strikes, automated reconnaissance, and large-scale disinformation campaigns. Their coordinated policies, such as China’s "Cyber Sovereignty" doctrine and Russia’s "Sovereign Internet" law, have fortified their domestic digital control while fostering deeper collaboration in intelligence sharing and offensive strategies. The integration of AI into cyber operations has also elevated threats to critical infrastructure, such as energy grids and healthcare systems, amplifying the economic and security risks to the U.S. This paper highlights key elements of the Sino-Russian alliance, including their shared resources, joint operations, and policy alignment, which collectively shape global cyber norms in their favour. It concludes with actionable recommendations for U.S. policymakers to strengthen national cybersecurity defences, mitigate risks to critical infrastructure, and foster international alliances to counterbalance the growing influence of this cyber partnership.

Keywords: Cyber Warfare, Artificial Intelligence, Sino-Russian Alliance, U.S. National Security, Critical Infrastructure, Disinformation Campaigns