EU Warns China of Consequences for Drone Production
European Union (EU) foreign ministers have issued a stern warning to China, cautioning that there will be “consequences” if evidence proves that China is producing military-grade drones for Russia’s war in Ukraine. This warning comes amidst intelligence reports indicating that armed drones are being manufactured for the Russian military in Xinjiang, a region in western China.
Diplomatic Reactions
Diplomatic sources described the intelligence as “conclusive,” “convincing,” and “credible.” German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock declared, “We say clearly to supporters of this brutal war of aggression on Ukraine: it concerns our own core security interests… we’re introducing further sanctions on Iran and also making this clear with regard to Chinese drone aid, because this too must and will have consequences.”
China’s Denial
China’s Foreign Ministry vehemently denied the allegations, citing the country’s strict controls on military drone exports. Spokesman Lin Jian stated, “We have never offered lethal weapons to any parties concerned… we hope people will not make presumptions concerning China without presenting any evidence based on facts.”
Potential Repercussions
At a meeting on Monday, EU ministers will discuss the intelligence and consider potential consequences for China. Finland’s Foreign Minister Elina Valtonen warned, “Essentially when it comes to China, it can’t be business as usual when it comes to our trade, if China in such an essential manner is hampering European security and the security architecture.”
Italian Concerns
Italy’s Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani urged China to refrain from sending drones to Russia, emphasizing that “it would be a big mistake.” He added that during a recent visit to China, he and Italian President Sergio Mattarella had “pushed hard for peace” and encouraged China’s positive influence on Russia.
Sanctions on the Table
Although the EU is yet to determine a concrete course of action, sanctions remain a potential tool. The bloc is preparing its 15th package of sanctions aimed at hampering Russia’s war effort, and some Chinese companies have been targeted for providing banned goods to the Russian military.
NATO’s Assessment
Prior to the EU meeting, Dutch Foreign Minister Caspar Veldkamp highlighted the impact of Sino-Russian ties on European security. He noted that NATO had identified Beijing as a “decisive enabler” in the war and emphasized the need for Europeans to address these concerns with China.
Support for US Sanctions
Lithuania’s Foreign Minister Gabrielius Landsbergis called for Europe to follow the US in imposing sanctions on entities involved in drone production. He stated, “My understanding is that they are providing [drones]. China is one of the main supporters of Russia’s military activity in Ukraine.” Landsbergis urged European capitals to stand firm and send a strong message that such actions would not be tolerated.
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