US accuses China of backing Russia’s extensive military expansion

China is significantly aiding Russia's military build-up, the largest since the Soviet era. According to a US assessment report, China has increased sales of technology crucial for weapon production, including machine tools and microelectronics, which Russia is using to build missiles, tanks, and aircraft for its war against Ukraine.

US officials are hopeful that sharing the intelligence will motivate European allies to apply pressure on China. This comes as German Chancellor Olaf Scholz prepares to visit Beijing over the weekend and G7 foreign ministers convene in Italy next week.

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According to US findings, China helped Russia in the production of drones, space-based capabilities and machine-tool exports vital for producing ballistic missiles.

China has become a lifeline for Russia's struggling defence industry, particularly after setbacks since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, a senior US official told reporters on condition of anonymity.

“Russia is launching its biggest military expansion since the Cold War, happening even faster than we initially anticipated,” said the US official.

“We believe the most critical step to aid Ukraine right now is convincing China to stop assisting Russia in rebuilding its military production capacity,” he further added, “Russia's war effort heavily relies on Chinese support, and without it, they'd struggle to continue.”

US officials said that China provided more than 70 per cent of the $900m (£723m) in machine tools – probably used to build ballistic missiles – imported in the last quarter of 2023 by Russia.

90 per cent of Russia’s microelectronics imports – used to produce missiles, tanks and aircraft – came from China last year, claimed US.

The US hopes European nations, facing China's economic importance, can leverage trade pressure.

Secretary of State Blinken is expected to raise the issue at upcoming G7 talks. High-level US visits, including a recent Biden-Xi call, aim to manage tensions while addressing concerns.

Blinken is also planning a visit in the coming weeks to China, on the heels of a trip by the treasury secretary, Janet Yellen.

The US emphasises its commitment to European stability and holding China accountable if Russia advances.

Additionally, the US and UK banned metal imports and trading of Russian aluminium, copper, and nickel to further restrict Russia's finances.

(With inputs from agencies)