Beijing is afraid of Ukraine’s victory: China announces strategic support for Russia
4 July 2025 09:38
China is not interested in Russia’s defeat in the war against Ukraine, as it fears increased pressure from the United States. This was reported by the South China Morning Post, citing sources familiar with the content of the conversation between Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and EU Chief Diplomat Kaja Kallas, "Komersant Ukrainian" reports
The meeting took place on July 3 in Brussels as part of the strategic dialogue between the European Union and China.
China’s position: against the defeat of Russia, but without direct support
According to the sources, Wang Yi explained that Russia’s defeat in the war with Ukraine contradicts Beijing’s strategic interests. He argued that in this case, the United States would be able to focus its attention on China.
At the same time, Wang Yi rejected accusations that Beijing is allegedly providing financial or military support to Russia. According to the minister, if such assistance really took place, the war would have already ended.
According to SCMP, during the four-hour discussion, the Chinese diplomat emphasized the changing geopolitical balance, saying that the United States would soon focus on the Indo-Pacific region.
According to the newspaper, Wang Yi also hinted at the possibility of shortening the planned EU-China summit, expressing dissatisfaction with the EU’s 18th package of sanctions against Russia, which could affect two Chinese banks.
Some European diplomats were surprised by Wang Yi’s frankness, especially given the approaching 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and the EU, which is scheduled to be celebrated during the two-day summit.
Sanctions, exports and military supplies
Amid tensions in relations, the EU has previously criticized China for subsidizing its manufacturers and restricting exports of rare earth elements and magnets, which has worsened economic dialogue.
Theofficial statement of the Chinese Foreign Ministry released after the meeting did not mention any tensions in the negotiations. It emphasized that there is “no fundamental conflict of interest” between China and the EU, and that both sides support “multilateralism and open cooperation.”
Informal support for Russia
Despite Beijing’s claims of neutrality, Ukrainian intelligence agencies regularly report on China’s actual support for Russia.
According to the Foreign Intelligence Service of Ukraine, China supplies Russia with special chemicals, gunpowder and equipment for at least 20 military plants.
In early 2025, 80% of critical electronics in Russian drones were of Chinese origin.
In April, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy claimed to have evidence of artillery and weapons components being supplied from China to Russia, as well as Chinese companies’ participation in weapons production in Russia.
