Baerbock warns Beijing over data on Chinese aid to Russia in creating UAVs

Illustrative photo from open sources

German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock warned of consequences if information about the supply of Chinese drones to Russia for use in the war against Ukraine is confirmed. EU foreign ministers also agreed to expand measures in connection with Iran's supply of UAVs and missiles to Russia.

“We are imposing additional sanctions on Iran and also sending a signal regarding China and its drone assistance, because this too must and will have consequences,” Baerbock told reporters, according to Agence France-Presse.

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During a meeting in Brussels, the EU foreign ministers analyzed intelligence data on the links between Chinese companies and the production of drones for use by Russia in combat operations against Ukraine. Earlier, the United States announced Russia's use of Chinese drones, imposing corresponding sanctions against two companies in China and one in Russia. According to the findings of American intelligence, these companies are involved in the development and production of the Russian long-range strike drone of the Harpia series.

“We have received reports from intelligence sources about the existence of a plant in China producing drones that are supplied to Russia and used in the war against Ukraine,” a senior EU official said ahead of the meeting.

He added that there is no clear evidence yet of direct cooperation between Beijing and Moscow in the production of military equipment. “As soon as we have evidence… we will react,” the EU representative emphasized.

A corresponding request has been sent to the Chinese authorities, he noted.

Ahead of the meeting in Brussels, Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani said that “it is important to send a signal to China and prevent escalation.”

Prepared by: Sergey Daga