US officials believe China can provide non-lethal military assistance to Russia in the Ukraine war
A Ukrainian soldier from the artillery unit throws an empty shell as they fire towards Russian positions on the outskirts of Bakhmut, eastern Ukraine on December 30, 2022.
Sameer Al-doumy | afp | beautiful pictures
The US believes that China can provide non-lethal military assistance to Russia for its use in Ukraineaccording to four US officials, and the administration is concerned that it is considering sending lethal aid.
While China has provided some assistance to Russia, including launching Russian disinformation campaigns about the war, this is more tangible support for the Russian military to use in Ukraine. .
Officials declined to provide specifics on nonlethal military support, but said it could include spring strike gear like uniforms or even armor.
A spokesman for the National Security Council declined to comment.
US Officials, including the President Joe Biden and National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan, have warned China not to provide military assistance to Russia or there will be consequences.
Foreign Minister Antony Blinken and Wang Yi of China were both present at the Munich Security Conference today, but have not met today.
Vice president Kamala Harris spoke at the Conference on Saturday and said China has drawn closer to Russia since the war began.
Officials said it was unclear whether the assistance violated any sanctions or whether the United States imposed sanctions or costs on China for the assistance.
