Ukraine war: What support is China giving Russia?

The article from BBC News' Reality Check, dated March 20, delves into the evolving relationship between China and Russia, particularly in the context of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The focal point of this relationship is the meeting between Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow, marking President Xi's first visit to Russia since the Ukrainian invasion.

China's role as a key trading partner for Russia has become increasingly crucial, especially as Russia seeks to mitigate the impact of economic sanctions imposed by Western countries in response to its invasion of Ukraine. The United States has raised concerns about China potentially supplying weapons and ammunition to Russia, a claim that China vehemently denies.

The article highlights China's growing prowess in military production, now ranking as the world's fourth-largest arms exporter. According to Siemon Wezeman from the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, China's advancement in weapons, notably drones, is of particular interest to Russia. The US has indicated that Chinese firms have provided non-lethal support to Russia and may soon extend lethal support.

Maria Shagina, an expert at the International Institute of Strategic Studies, notes that while China has not openly supplied weapons to Russia, there is evidence of clandestine sales of high-tech products for military use. These include semiconductors, often routed through shell companies in Hong Kong and the UAE, and civilian drones that blur the line between military and civilian purposes. The US-based Center for Advanced Defense Studies also points out that Chinese companies might be supplying electronic parts for Russian anti-aircraft missile radars.

The US has imposed sanctions on a Chinese firm accused of providing satellite imagery to support Russian mercenary forces in Ukraine. This development underscores the complexity of China's involvement in the conflict.

Economically, China's trade with Russia soared to a record $190 billion in 2022, a 30% increase from the previous year, making it Russia's most significant trading partner. This increase came as Russia's trade with Western nations plummeted due to sanctions and severed business ties. Russian imports from China grew by 13% to $76 billion, and exports to China by 43% to $114 billion.

In the energy sector, Russia's oil and gas sales to the EU have drastically reduced, partly offset by increased sales to Asia, notably China. Russia doubled its liquid petroleum gas exports to China in 2022, increased natural gas deliveries through the Power of Siberia pipeline by 50%, and boosted crude oil exports by 10%. Despite attempts by the G7, the EU, and Australia to cap Russian oil prices, China continues to purchase Russian crude at market rates. Moreover, the two countries are planning to expand their energy ties with projects like the Power of Siberia 2 gas pipeline.

In summary, the article paints a comprehensive picture of China's multifaceted support for Russia amid the Ukraine conflict. This support ranges from economic trade, potential military aid, and energy purchases, highlighting the strategic depth and complexity of the China-Russia relationship in the current global geopolitical landscape.