Increasingly more Chinese components found in Russian weapons in Ukraine, official says
The flag of China (Photo:johnnycui / pixabay)
While Beijing may remain reluctant to send heavy weapons to Moscow, more and more Chinese-made electronic components are being found in Russian weapons captured and destroyed in Ukraine, Vladyslav Vlasiuk, an adviser to the head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, told Reuters on April 14.
“The trend is now that there are less Western-made components but more components from – not hard to guess which country; China, of course,” said Vlasiuk.
Ukrainian experts provided Reuters with some examples: in the navigation systems of Russian Orlan UAVs, they found parts made in China instead of Switzerland. Similarly, Chinese parts have started replacing French-made components in fire control systems of Russian tanks.
According to Vlasiuk, Ukraine has identified some of these manufacturers and suppliers, and will share the data with Western allies. The Chinese Foreign Ministry told Reuters that it has always had “normal trade cooperation with all countries, including Russia, on the basis of equality and mutual benefit.”
At the same time, Beijing has reiterated it will not sell weapons to Russia.
“China will not provide weapons to relevant parties of the conflict, and manage and control the exports of dual-use items in accordance with laws and regulations,” Chinese Foreign Minister Qin Gang said at a joint press conference with his German counterpart, Annalena Baerbock, on April 14, as reported by AP.
Politico previously reported that Chinese companies sold 1,000 assault rifles, body armor, and drone parts to Russia in 2022.
The United States and its allies have repeatedly stated that China is considering supplying weapons to Russia. According to U.S. media, this could include drones, ammunition, and artillery. Beijing has consistently denied the allegations.
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