US Secretary of State: "China Has Not Provided Direct Weapons Support to Russia... Sanctions Will Continue"

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken confirmed on the 21st (local time) that China has not provided weapons to Russia like North Korea has. He also emphasized the intention to continue sanctions related to dual-use items that can be used for military purposes.

[Image source=AFP Yonhap News]

At a Senate Foreign Relations Committee hearing that day, Secretary Blinken stated, "We have not seen China provide actual weapons to Russia for use in the invasion of Ukraine," adding, "North Korea and Iran are doing so."

However, he pointed out, "China is providing substantial support to Russia's defense industry," noting, "China exports small electronic components accounting for up to 90% of Russia's total imports, which are flowing into the defense industry." He continued, "China should not improve relations with European countries on one hand while supporting the greatest threat to Europe since the Cold War on the other," emphasizing, "We have already sanctioned over 100 Chinese companies producing dual-use items, and we will continue such measures."

Regarding the recently announced tariff measures, including a 100% tariff on Chinese electric vehicles, Blinken explained, "If China does not engage in items we oppose, we will not use such tariffs as sanctions."

Regarding the U.S.-China artificial intelligence (AI) talks, he said, "Regardless of fundamental differences, I thought it was important at least to discuss how each side views AI," adding, "We might explore whether we can reach an agreement to prevent the misuse of AI, similar to arms control during the Cold War."

[Image source=AFP Yonhap News]

Regarding the Middle East war, he expressed "deep concern about the imminent ground offensive in Rafah," but about the International Criminal Court (ICC) prosecutor issuing arrest warrants simultaneously for Hamas and Israeli leaders, he said, "I would be pleased if we can take appropriate action together with Congress."

Meanwhile, at the hearing, pro-Palestinian protesters attended and shouted "You are a war criminal" before Blinken's remarks, were stopped, and forcibly removed.