No Evidence of Chinese Arms Supply to Russia

Written by Henrik Rothen

Jun.01 - 2024 12:09 PM CET

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Photo: Wikimedia Commons
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
EU Finds No Evidence of Chinese Arms Supply to Russia.

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The European Union has no proof of China supplying weapons to Russia, according to Josep Borrell, the EU's High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy.

Speaking at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, Borrell highlighted the complexity of defining what constitutes weaponry.

"There is no clear boundary between weapons and non-weapons, as some items can serve dual purposes," he stated.

Western Components in Russian Military Gear

Borrell pointed out that Russian military equipment often contains components made in Western countries like the US, Europe, and the UK.

"The issue is not just about China," he added, indicating the broader challenge of controlling military supplies.

US Accusations and Warnings

The US has repeatedly accused China of providing military aid to Russia.

On May 15, Secretary of State Antony Blinken warned Chinese companies against supporting Russia's defense industry, threatening new sanctions on Beijing. Earlier, in April, Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen cautioned Chinese banks about "serious consequences" for violating anti-Russian sanctions.

State Department spokesman Matthew Miller later expressed the White House's "grave concern" over alleged military shipments from China to Russia.

Despite US warnings, British intelligence reports suggest continued military cooperation between China and Russia.

On May 22, UK Defense Secretary Grant Shapps claimed that Beijing had begun supplying lethal weapons to Moscow for use in the Ukraine conflict. Shapps also noted a 65% increase in trade between China and Russia, underscoring a deepening relationship.

At the end of April, Antony Blinken visited China and met with President Xi Jinping and Foreign Minister Wang Yi. During the meetings, Blinken reiterated the US's stance, warning of additional sanctions on over 100 Chinese entities if they continue supporting Russia's defense sector.