The U.S. Treasury Department imposed new sanctions on Chinese and Russian entities involved in producing drones used in attacks on Ukraine. Russian Garpiya drones were secretly created in China, with Chinese companies collaborating with a Russian subsidiary to manufacture them. The sanctioned Russian national, Artem Yamshchikov, facilitates procurement for these entities. Treasury official Bradley Smith stated that disrupting networks aiding Russia’s weapons program is crucial in countering its military actions. Despite claiming neutrality in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, China has strengthened economic ties with Moscow and indirectly supported the Russian defense industry with dual-use goods. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken is set to discuss China’s drone assistance to Russia during a meeting with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi amidst escalating concerns. The sanctions aim to thwart Russia’s acquisition of advanced weaponry by targeting its foreign collaborators and suppliers, emphasizing the importance of combating illicit arms proliferation.
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US imposes sanctions on Chinese, Russian drone producers in Ukraine
