Brussels is reportedly considering action based on media reports alleging Chinese assistance to the Russian military, allegations which Beijing denies.
According to Politico, citing a diplomatic source, the EU is considering sanctions against China over its alleged support for Russia’s military. The reported plan is based on recent media accusations.
China has not participated in Western sanctions against Moscow following the escalation of the Ukraine conflict in 2022. It has maintained close economic ties with Russia and consistently advocated for a diplomatic solution. Recently, Western nations have increased efforts to target Russia’s major trading partners, including China, to isolate Moscow and reduce its export revenues.
The EU’s shift in stance appears to stem from a Reuters investigative report in July. The report cited customs data and unnamed Western officials, claiming that Chinese companies supplied Russia with equipment potentially used for military purposes, including components for drones, radar systems, and fighter jets.
“The report is accurate and it shows China is escalating its role, both quantitatively and qualitatively,” the diplomat told Politico, asserting that the conflict “would look very different right now” without China’s alleged support.
Earlier this month, Beijing refuted similar claims from US officials before the UN Security Council, denouncing Washington’s actions as a “meaningless blame game.” Chinese envoy Geng Shuang labeled the accusations “false” and “completely unacceptable.” He defended China’s economic ties with Russia, emphasizing that neither the US nor the EU has ceased trade relations with Moscow.
These criticisms followed the introduction of legislation by a group of US senators that would mandate the Trump administration to target Chinese “entities and individuals” allegedly supporting the Russian defense industry amidst international sanctions.
The US has also informed the UN Security Council that China is “the most important supplier” to the Russian military.
Russia has not confirmed importing military-related goods from China and has condemned Western sanctions as illegal, counterproductive and a “double-edged sword.”
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