US targets Chinese firms over Russia drone support

The US Treasury has taken action against two Chinese companies‚ accusing them of helping Russia build long-range attack drones for use in Ukraine. This move comes as part of the Biden administrations efforts to address Chinas alleged support for Russias military-industrial base.

Matthew Miller from the State Department stated that the Chinese-designed Garpiya drones have been used to destroy vital infrastructure in Ukraine resulting in many casualties. However Beijing continues to deny providing weapons to either side of the conflict insisting its trade with Russia is normal.

The sanctions target Xiamen Limbach Aircraft Engine Company (a drone engine producer) and Redlepus Vector Industry which worked with a Russian entity to facilitate drone shipments. US officials claim these firms have been developing attack drones with Russians since early 2024.

Additionally sanctions were imposed on Artem Mikhailovich Yamshchikov a Russian national who owns TSK Vektor and TD Vector – both involved in the drone program. The US administration suggests China should have known TSK Vektor was a “problematic actor“

Beijings involvement in Russias military efforts remains a point of contention as the Ukraine conflict continues into its third year. The US aims to target the “direct activity“ between China and Russia‚ highlighting growing concerns over their collaboration in the defense sector

Despite Chinas insistence on its neutrality‚ these sanctions underscore the complex geopolitical dynamics at play in the ongoing Ukraine war. The US Treasuryʼs actions reflect its determination to disrupt supply chains supporting Russias military capabilities