The US has issued a warning to its allies about China’s increased support for Russia in its war against Ukraine. According to sources, China has been providing geospatial intelligence, satellite imagery, microelectronics, machine tools for tanks, optics, propellants for missiles, and increased space cooperation to aid Russia in its military efforts.
Despite portraying itself as neutral, China has deepened its alliance with Russia, with trade between the two countries reaching a record $240 billion in 2023. This partnership has allowed Russia to access restricted technologies, including chips and integrated circuits, needed for weapons production.
The Biden administration has sanctioned a Chinese company for providing satellite images to a Russian technology firm, which then supplied them to the Wagner mercenary group. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has briefed European allies on the extent of China’s support for Russia and called for action to curtail it.
Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen has warned of “significant consequences” for companies, including those in China, found to be supporting Russia’s war efforts. The US and its allies are looking to address their concerns with Beijing and increase efforts to crack down on China’s support for Russia’s defense industry.
As Ukraine faces a critical artillery shortage and struggles to resupply, Russia has been able to boost its arms production and import key components from third countries. The Biden administration has previously cautioned China against providing weapons to Russia, and there is no evidence that China has done so thus far.