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According to Bloomberg, Russia now imports more than 90% of sanctioned technologies through China, highlighting Moscow’s growing dependence on Beijing amid the ongoing war against Ukraine.
This share has increased from about 80% last year as the European Union tightens controls on supply routes used by Russia to obtain restricted goods. While exact volumes were not disclosed, sources say Russia relies on Chinese support to expand production of weapons systems, including missiles and drones.
The EU has imposed sanctions targeting technologies such as semiconductors and electronics, and has also blacklisted companies in several countries, including China, for helping Moscow bypass restrictions. However, these measures have not stopped the flow of critical supplies. Beijing has reportedly provided geospatial intelligence, satellite imagery, and drones, even as exports of such goods to Ukraine and other countries have declined.
Sources add that many EU countries are reluctant to introduce tougher sanctions against China due to fears of retaliation from Beijing. China, for its part, maintains that it does not recognize international sanctions and continues what it calls “normal trade relations” with Russia, while publicly emphasizing a neutral stance on the war.