"China has become the biggest problem": 60% of Russian weapons components come through the PRC

Approximately 60% of foreign components found in Russian weaponry in Ukraine originate from China. This was reported by President Zelensky's advisor, Vladislav Vlasuk.

Vlasuk also mentioned that essential parts used for surveillance, drones, and missiles come from the USA, the Netherlands, Japan, Switzerland, and other Western countries.

“If we take all the conventional types of weaponry and account for foreign-produced components, about 60% will be from China. We have had lengthy discussions with some manufacturers about this; I would say China is the biggest issue,” he stated.

Despite the close trade relations between Russia and China, Beijing has repeatedly denied supplying weapons to any party and claimed it is not involved in the war in Ukraine. Despite extensive sanctions, Moscow continues to utilize chips and other components from the West in its military production.

The presidential advisor believes that the European Union could do more to halt the flow of Western products, notably by taking actions against the Russian atomic energy company, Rosatom. European capitals have been reluctant to impose sanctions due to Russia's dominance in nuclear technology supply.

“Rosatom... we believe it uses its networks to supply the Russian army,” said Vlasuk.

EU countries could target sanctions at Russia's logistics, such as airports and seaports, and financial institutions that facilitate sales, the presidential advisor noted. He added that the recent US sanctions package on IT had proven to be very effective since it came into force earlier this month.

Source: Reuters