UK Defence Minister Accuses China of Arming Russia in Ukraine War

UK Defence Minister Grant Shapps has accused China of involvement in supplying lethal aid to Russia, particularly for its conflict with Ukraine.

Shapps made these claims during a conference in London, stating, “We should be concerned about that because in the earlier days of this war China would like to present itself as a moderating influence on Russian President Vladimir Putin”.

He cited intelligence from US and British defence sources indicating the flow of such aid from China to Russia for the use in Ukraine.

While evidence to support these assertions was not provided, Shapps highlighted a notable 64% increase in trade between China and Russia since the onset of the Russian war in Ukraine, suggesting a deepening relationship between the two states.

Despite inquiries, the Chinese embassy in London has yet to respond to Shapps’ remarks.

Recent statements from senior US officials have echoed Shapps’ allegations, suggesting Chinese support for Russia’s war effort in Ukraine through the provision of drone and missile technology, satellite imagery, and machine tools.

However, the Chinese embassy in the US has denied involvement in supplying weaponry, emphasising China’s non-involvement in the Ukraine crisis.

growing alignment between Russia and China

The growing alignment between Russia and China was underscored by a recent meeting between Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping, where both leaders pledged a strengthened partnership and opposition to the United States on various security issues, including Taiwan and Ukraine.

This partnership, characterised as a “no limits” relationship, has raised concerns about the extent of China’s support for Russia amidst escalating tensions in Europe.

Shapps also highlighted broader geopolitical implications, noting the emboldening of regimes such as Russia, China, Iran, and North Korea due to what he described as a quarter-century of “western timidity” towards repression and aggression.

He urged action, stating, “It is time for the world to wake up,” and called for increased defence spending among NATO members as a necessary measure to confront emerging threats and assertive behaviour from authoritarian regimes.

Read also:

US Secretary of State Blinken Accuses China of Being Russia’s Primary Military Complex Supplier

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