China is helping Russia with its largest military expansion since Soviet times, according to US officials on Friday, amid rising concerns over Ukraine.
US officials are releasing intelligence in hopes of getting European allies to press China, as Chancellor Olaf Scholz goes to Beijing and G7 foreign ministers meet in Italy.
China has been assisting Russia in various areas, including drones, space capabilities, and machine-tool exports crucial for producing ballistic missiles.
US officials revealed that China has been revitalizing Russia’s defense industrial base, which had setbacks post-Ukraine invasion.
China provided over 70% of $900 million in machine tools imported by Russia in the last quarter of 2023, and 90% of Russia’s microelectronics imports last year.
The United States has cautioned China against aiding Russia, believing China has sent non-military material due to Russian setbacks on the battlefield.
President Biden’s administration is urging European powers to persuade China as Secretary of State Blinken plans to address China’s ties to Russia at G7 talks in Italy.
The US hopes that dialogue with China can contain tensions but will continue to press concerns regarding China’s support for Russia.
Despite battlefield setbacks in Ukraine and delays in US support due to political hurdles, the US remains committed to holding China accountable for any gains Russia makes.
