American intelligence notes that China provides economic and security assistance to Russia in the context of the ongoing war against Ukraine.
China helps Russia not only economically
The report of the US special services states that America is facing an "increasingly fragile world order" strained by the competition of great powers, transnational challenges, and regional conflicts.
An ambitious but troubled China, a confrontational Russia, some regional powers like Iran, and more capable non-state actors are challenging the long-established rules of the international system, as well as US supremacy within it, the CIA report said.
After more than two years of war in Ukraine, the main focus of the report is on threats from the main rivals of the United States - China and Russia. It is emphasized that China provides economic assistance to Russia and supports the Russian industrial base.
Trade between China and Russia has been growing since the start of the war in Ukraine, and (Chinese) exports of goods with potential military uses have more than tripled since 2022.
In her testimony, US National Intelligence Director Euryl Gaines urged lawmakers to approve increasing military aid to Ukraine. She said, " It is difficult to imagine how Ukraine" will be able to keep the territories won from Russia without additional help from Washington.
The report also warned that China could use the technology to influence this year's US election.
What is known about the relations between China and Russia
China began to maintain closer ties with the Russian Federation after the start of a full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
In particular, Beijing refused to join the sanctions imposed by the US against the Kremlin.
Beijing and Moscow share a mutual interest in challenging US dominance in the world order as their relations with democracies grow increasingly strained.
The United States has repeatedly warned China against providing assistance to the Russian Federation in the war against Ukraine or facilitating the evasion of sanctions. So, back in the summer, American intelligence stated that the PRC supplies Russia with technology and equipment.
Earlier in November 2023, the European Parliament called for more robust controls and more effective measures to limit Russia's ability to circumvent restrictive measures introduced by EU countries.
