China has weapons to give Russia an edge in Ukraine – why hasn’t it? – By Ann Scott Tyson (CS Monitor) / Mar 15, 2023
As Russia slogs into the second year of its war in Ukraine, facing a mounting toll in lives and treasure, Moscow is increasingly desperate for an infusion of lethal aid from the country that’s already serving as an economic lifeline – China.
Indeed, Beijing possesses ample, Russian-style military hardware and munitions that could help tilt the battle in the Kremlin’s favor and undermine efforts by Kyiv and its Western supporters to restore Ukraine’s sovereign territory.
Washington recently stepped up warnings to Beijing after U.S. intelligence indicated China is considering providing its northern ally with weaponry – reportedly including artillery shells and attack drones used in front-line combat. So far, no evidence has emerged showing Beijing has made such transfers, U.S. officials say.
