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Russia ,China  

Amidst the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, reports indicate that China has significantly aided Russia in bolstering its defense industrial base, marking its most ambitious expansion since the Soviet era. According to senior Biden administration officials, this collaboration includes joint efforts to produce drones within Russia.

The support from China has enabled Russia to sustain its assault on Ukraine, exacerbating challenges faced by the Ukrainian military due to equipment and weapon shortages. Despite calls for a new American military aid package to Kyiv, efforts have been stymied by Republican opposition in the US Congress.

A senior administration official emphasized the pivotal role of persuading China to cease its assistance to Russia, citing Chinese materials filling critical gaps in Russia's defense production cycle. This support has enabled Russia to rapidly reconstitute its military capabilities since its invasion of Ukraine over two years ago.

Gen. Chris Cavoli, commander of US European Command, acknowledged Russia's success in rebuilding its military capacity, largely attributed to support from China. In 2023, 90% of Russia's micro-electronics imports originated from China, facilitating the production of missiles, tanks, and aircraft.

Furthermore, China's contributions have fueled Russia's expansion of artillery production, with nitrocellulose imports crucial for this endeavor. Russia's artillery munitions production is poised to surpass that of the US and Europe.

In addition to defense hardware, China is aiding Russia in enhancing its satellite and space-based capabilities, providing imagery for its operations in Ukraine. Despite US efforts to deter Chinese support, President Joe Biden and Secretary of State Antony Blinken have raised concerns with Chinese counterparts, warning of consequences for enabling Russia's military buildup.

While China refrains from supplying lethal weaponry to Russia, its assistance in other areas remains impactful. The Biden administration has issued an executive order targeting third-country banks facilitating support to the Russian defense industry, signaling a commitment to curbing this trade.

Efforts to persuade China to halt its support for Russia's military endeavors remain ongoing, with global cooperation essential to enforce compliance and mitigate inadvertent involvement in sanctioned activities.

In conclusion, China's assistance is instrumental in sustaining Russia's military operations in Ukraine, highlighting the complex dynamics at play in the ongoing conflict. Addressing Chinese support is crucial for promoting stability and resolving the crisis in the region.