No, the claim that China has joined Ukraine to defeat Russia is false. In reality, China has maintained a position of support for Russia during the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
China’s Support for Russia:
- Economic Assistance: China has been a significant economic partner to Russia, especially amid Western sanctions. Trade between the two nations reached approximately $240 billion in 2023, marking a 26.3% increase from the previous year. Harvard International Review
- Military Support: There are reports indicating that China has provided Russia with satellite imagery and microelectronics, which have bolstered Russia’s military capabilities in Ukraine. Українська правда+1Voice of America+1
- Political Alignment: Chinese officials have expressed support for Russia regarding the Ukraine conflict. For instance, during a meeting with Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu, Chinese Defense Minister General Li Shangfu stated that China would continue to support Russia on the “Ukraine issue,” despite external pressures. Wikipedia
Clarifying the Misconception:
There is no credible evidence to suggest that China has shifted its stance to support Ukraine against Russia. On the contrary, China’s actions and official statements indicate a continued alignment with Russia.
Recent developments indicate that Chinese state-owned oil companies have reduced imports of Russian oil due to concerns over U.S. sanctions. Additionally, China is implementing stricter export controls on drone components, affecting global supply chains, including Ukraine’s access to these parts.ReutersDroneXL.co+5DRONELIFE+5Ukranews+5
China’s Oil Imports from Russia
- Reduction by State-Owned Enterprises: Chinese state oil companies, such as Sinopec and Zhenhua Oil, have decreased or halted imports of Russian oil in March 2025, citing compliance risks associated with recent U.S. sanctions on Russian producers. Reuters
- Overall Import Trends: Despite these reductions by state entities, China’s total imports from Russia had increased in previous years. In 2024, imports averaged 2.2 million barrels per day, a 1% rise from 2023, as China capitalized on discounted Russian crude amidst Western sanctions. ReutersEIA
- Impact of Sanctions: The U.S. sanctions imposed on January 10, 2025, targeted key Russian oil producers and associated logistics, leading to a significant drop in Russian oil exports to major buyers like China and India. This prompted Chinese state-run firms to reassess their import strategies to mitigate potential risks. Reuters+1Reuters+1
China’s Drone Component Exports
- Export Restrictions: China is preparing to implement stricter export controls on drone components, expected to take effect in early 2025. These measures aim to regulate the sale of critical drone parts, including batteries, motors, and flight controllers, to countries like the U.S. and Ukraine. DroneXL.co+5DRONELIFE+5PCMAG+5DRONELIFE+2DroneDJ+2DroneXL.co+2
- Impact on Ukraine: The anticipated export controls could significantly affect Ukraine’s drone capabilities, as the country has heavily relied on Chinese-manufactured components for its military operations. The restrictions may disrupt supply chains, compelling Ukraine to seek alternative sources or adjust its drone strategies. DroneXL.co+1DroneXL.co+1DroneXL.co
In summary, Chinese state-owned enterprises are reducing Russian oil imports due to sanction-related risks, and upcoming export controls on drone components are likely to impact Ukraine’s access to essential drone technologies.Reuters
China’s Shifting Stance on Russian Oil and Drone Exports
China state firms curb Russian oil imports on sanctions risks, sources say
6 days agoReutersRussian oil cargo transferred from sanctioned tankers discharged into China, data shows2 days agoDroneDJChina tightens drone exports amid rising US trade tensions99 days ago
Sources