According to a recent statement from President Volodymyr Zelensky’s advisor, over half of the foreign components used in Russian weapons discovered in Ukraine are sourced from and through China. Despite China’s strong economic ties with Russia, the Chinese government has consistently denied providing weapons or being involved in the Ukraine conflict.
“If we analyze the various weapon types and their foreign-made parts, around 60 percent are from China. We’ve had extensive talks with some manufacturers on this matter. I would point to the PRC as a significant issue,” said Vladyslav Vlasiuk in Brussels, as reported by Reuters.
Dmitri Lovetsky/AP
While in Brussels for discussions with EU and G7 representatives about sanctions against Russia, Vlasiuk noted that essential components for surveillance systems, drones, and missiles are also sourced from other countries, such as the U.S., Netherlands, Japan, and Switzerland. He presented evidence that some of these parts date back over a decade, while others were produced recently.
Since launching its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Russia has continued its military efforts by acquiring Western microchips and semiconductors, despite facing significant sanctions.
Vlasiuk suggested that the EU should intensify actions to limit the flow of Western goods, potentially including measures against Russia’s state nuclear corporation, Rosatom. “We believe Russia uses Rosatom’s networks to support its military,” he stated. However, European nations have been cautious, wary of Russia’s significant role in nuclear energy supplies.
He also mentioned the possibility of targeting Russia’s logistics networks, such as airports and shipping ports, along with financial firms involved in these transactions.
Vlasiuk commended a recent U.S. sanctions package on IT, calling it highly effective since its implementation earlier this month.
Currently, President Zelensky is in the U.S., preparing to present a “victory” plan to President Joe Biden and is set to address the United Nations General Assembly on Wednesday.
In June, Zelensky revealed that Chinese President Xi Jinping assured him that no weapons would be supplied to Russia during the ongoing conflict. “He promised me,” Zelensky remarked following a conversation with Xi during the G7 summit in Italy.
Additionally, China’s foreign minister emphasized in February that Beijing does not supply lethal weapons for the Russia-Ukraine war, reinforcing China’s stance on pursuing diplomatic solutions rather than escalating the conflict.