China has significantly increased its sales of machine tools, microelectronics, and other technology to Russia, enabling Moscow to produce a wide array of weaponry for its ongoing conflict with Ukraine, according to a U.S. assessment.
Senior Biden administration officials revealed that in 2023, about 90% of Russia’s microelectronics and nearly 70% of its machine tool imports came from China. This partnership extends to the joint production of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) within Russia and the provision of critical components like nitrocellulose for ammunition manufacturing.
Chinese companies such as Wuhan Global Sensor Technology Co., Wuhan Tongsheng Technology Co. Ltd., and Hikvision are supplying optical components for Russian tanks and armored vehicles. Additionally, Russia has received military optics from Chinese firms iRay Technology and North China Research Institute of Electro-Optics. China’s role in providing engines for UAVs and turbojet engines for cruise missiles further deepens the collaboration in military technology between the two countries.
Beijing Sends More Gear to Moscow for War Support (Credits: Reuters)
Russia’s reliance on Chinese semiconductor imports has seen a significant increase, reflecting a broader trend of economic interdependence. The Free Russia Foundation’s analysis of Russian customs data indicates a notable surge in semiconductor imports from China, highlighting the depth of their economic ties.
Beyond conventional military support, China is also assisting Russia in enhancing its space-based capabilities, which could potentially escalate the threat Russia poses across Europe in the long term. The U.S. intelligence community has downgraded its findings to reveal that China is providing imagery to Russia for its operations in Ukraine, further complicating international dynamics.
Despite the growing indirect support for Russia’s war effort, China has vehemently denied providing direct lethal military support, instead choosing to back Russia diplomatically while refraining from labeling the conflict as an invasion. Chinese officials emphasize the importance of maintaining normal trade relations with Russia and urge the U.S. not to interfere or restrict their bilateral relationship.
In response to China’s growing involvement, the Biden administration has issued warnings and threatened sanctions against Chinese banks, companies, and officials aiding Russia’s military activities in Ukraine. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen stressed the consequences for firms, including those in China, if they provide material support to Russia’s war efforts. The U.S. has intensified efforts to deter China from directly arming Russia, emphasizing the potential ramifications for Chinese entities involved.
