As the conflict in Ukraine persists, China has been providing substantial support to Russia to bolster its weapons manufacturing capabilities, according to U.S. officials.
The assistance includes significant quantities of machine tools, drone, and turbojet engines, technology for cruise missiles, microelectronics, and nitrocellulose—a key component for weapon propellant production, CNN reports.
Chinese and Russian entities have been collaborating to produce drones within Russia, further enhancing Russia’s military capabilities. Additionally, China is aiding Russia in enhancing its satellite and other space-based capabilities for use in the conflict in Ukraine, while also providing imagery to support Russia’s military operations.
This support from China has had a profound impact on Russia’s ability to sustain its assault on Ukraine, particularly as Ukraine’s military faces equipment and weapon shortages.
U.S. officials emphasize that China’s contributions to Russia’s defense production cycle are filling critical gaps, enabling Russia to maintain its war efforts.
According to CNN, in 2023, a staggering 90% of Russia’s microelectronics imports originated from China, facilitating the production of various military hardware. The rapid expansion of Russia’s artillery munitions production is also attributed to nitrocellulose imports from China.
Despite concerns raised by U.S. officials to their Chinese counterparts, China’s support for Russia’s defense industry continues unabated. President Joe Biden and Secretary of State Antony Blinken have both addressed the issue with Chinese President Xi Jinping and U.S. allies, respectively.
