US challenges key ally on Ukraine lethal aid claim
The United States has challenged an allegation made by its ally, the UK, that China has been providing Russia with lethal weapons for use against Ukraine.
On Wednesday, British Defense Secretary Grant Shapps claimed, without providing details, that London had “evidence” that the two countries were “collaborating” on combat equipment that would be used in the Ukraine conflict.
US national security adviser, Jake Sullivan, has since cast doubt on Shapps’ claim. Speaking during Thursday's White House press briefing, Sullivan noted that Washington had no evidence of China directly providing weapons to Russia.
”We have not seen that to date. I look forward to speaking with the UK to make sure that we have a common operating picture,” Sullivan said.
Washington has alleged that China is supplying Russia with technology for its military, but has not directly provided “lethal” aid.
The US has sanctioned dozens of Chinese companies, accusing them of supplying Russia with ‘dual use’ goods and components, a term referring to items such as navigation devices and machine tools with both civilian and military applications.
China has repeatedly dismissed the claims as “groundless.” Beijing has maintained a neutral stance on Ukraine, having repeatedly called for a diplomatic solution. Trade between Russia and China reached record levels after Western countries imposed economic sanctions against Moscow over the conflict.
