An unclassified U.S. intelligence report reveals that China is likely aiding Russia in circumventing Western sanctions and supplying Moscow with military and dual-use technology for use in Ukraine

The assessment, conducted by the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI) and published by the U.S. House of Representatives Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, highlights China’s alleged involvement in supporting Russia during the ongoing conflict.

Despite China repeatedly denying any military equipment shipments to Russia since Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, the report claims that China is providing dual-use technology that aids Moscow’s military efforts in Ukraine, despite international sanctions and export controls.

The ODNI report specifically cites customs records showing state-owned Chinese defense companies shipping navigation equipment, jamming technology, and fighter jet parts to Russian government-owned defense companies that are under sanctions.

Chinese partnership

Furthermore, the report indicates that China has become an increasingly important partner for Russia following the invasion of Ukraine, with both nations increasing the share of bilateral trade settled in China’s yuan currency.

Additionally, Chinese and Russian financial institutions are expanding their use of domestic payment systems, further solidifying their economic ties. The report also points out that China has augmented its importation of Russian energy exports, including oil and gas rerouted from Europe.

The ODNI relies on media reports for much of the information presented in the report, and it acknowledges a lack of sufficient reporting to determine whether Beijing is intentionally hindering U.S. government export control end-use checks, including interviews and investigations, in China.

Notably, earlier in the month, French President Emmanuel Macron’s top diplomatic adviser had suggested that China was delivering items that could be used as military equipment to Russia, though not on a large scale.

While U.S. officials have expressed concern about transfers of “dual-use equipment” from China to Russia, they maintain that they have not yet seen concrete evidence of the transfer of lethal assistance from China to be used by Russia on the battlefield.

In conclusion, the intelligence report raises serious concerns about China’s involvement in supplying technology to Russia amid ongoing tensions in Ukraine and the international sanctions imposed on Russia. The findings add to the complex geopolitical dynamics between China, Russia, and Western countries, and may have implications for future diplomatic and security relations in the region.