**China Found to be Circumventing Sanctions on Russia**
In a surprising development, it has been reported that China is discreetly supplying drone engines to Russia’s state-owned manufacturer, IEMZ Kupol. This alleged practice has enabled Russia to significantly increase its production of Garpiya-A1 attack drones.
According to three European security officials and documents reviewed by Reuters, the Chinese-made L550E engines are being shipped to Russia labeled as “industrial refrigeration units” to avoid detection. This clever tactic has allowed Russia to boost its drone output despite sanctions imposed by the US and EU in October.
The Garpiya drones are being used to strike civilian and military targets deep within Ukrainian territory, with approximately 500 units deployed each month, according to a statement from the Ukrainian military intelligence agency. The European security officials requested anonymity due to the sensitive nature of the information.
**China’s Involvement**
In September, Reuters reported that Kupol was manufacturing the Garpiya using Chinese technology. Following this report, several companies involved in the drone’s production were sanctioned by the US and EU, including Xiamen Limbach Aviation Engine Co., which produced the L550E engines.
However, a new Chinese firm, Beijing Xichao International Technology and Trade, has taken over the supply of these engines to Kupol. This is evidenced by invoices, an internal Kupol letter, and transportation documents reviewed by Reuters.
**Chinese Response**
China’s foreign ministry stated that it was unaware of the export of parts for the Garpiya and maintained that it controls foreign sales of dual-use goods in accordance with Chinese law and international obligations.
“China has always opposed unilateral sanctions that lack basis in international law and are not authorized by the U.N. Security Council,” the statement read.
**EU Response**
The EU has consistently imposed sanctions on companies accused of providing dual-use technology to Russia. Kupol itself has been under EU sanctions since December 2022 and US sanctions since December 2023 for its involvement in Russia’s defense sector.
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen is set to travel to China for a summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping and Premier Li Qiang on July 24, amidst growing tensions over Beijing’s perceived support for Russia’s war efforts.
**EU Urges Enhanced Controls**
Ahead of the summit, one European official noted that the EU is not asking China to sever economic ties with Russia but rather to enhance customs and financial controls to curb the flow of specific dual-use goods.
The EU has urged China to stop trade that sustains Russia’s military machine, as Chinese firms’ support for Russia in the war poses a threat to European security.
**Conclusion**
China’s alleged covert supply of drone engines to Russia raises concerns about Beijing’s intentions and compliance with international sanctions. As tensions between China and the West continue to rise, it remains to be seen how this situation will unfold.
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