U.S. Sanctions Chinese Firms Making Drones for Russia

Washington issued new sanctions targeting China-based companies involved in producing drones used by Russia in the war against Ukraine. It is the first time the U.S. has sanctioned Chinese companies directly developing weapons in partnership with Russian firms.

China and Russia have strengthened ties since the invasion of Ukraine, with Western governments accusing China of supporting Moscow’s aggression through diplomatic and economic means. China denies providing lethal weapons and opposes the use of civilian drones for military purposes.

The U.S. sanctions focused on three companies – two in China (Xiamen Limbach Aircraft Engine Co, Redlepus Vector Industry Shenzhen Co) and one in Russia (Limited Liability Company Trading House Vector), along with Russian citizen Artem Mikhailovich Yamshchikov. The sanctions target their involvement in developing and producing Russia’s Garpiya series long-range attack drone.

Treasury Acting Under Secretary Bradley Smith highlighted Russia’s reliance on foreign expertise and technologies for its weapons program. The measures have drawn backlash from Beijing, with China vowing to protect the rights of its companies and citizens.