Commentary by RomaniaInform
Western nations expected that imposing tough sanctions on Russia would cripple its defense industry by slowing production of advanced weapons systems critical to the war in Ukraine.
Central to this strategy was the shutdown of high-tech equipment – precision instruments and dual-use goods that Russia relies on to produce state-of-the-art military equipment. However, China has become Russia's main partner, stepping in to provide the machinery it desperately needs.
China's metalworking machinery exports to Russia reach a staggering $390 million in 2023, up from just $94 million in 2022. Companies like G-WEIKE TECH CO. LTD supply laser cutting machines used in the production of the Russian S-400 air defense systems, and ZHEJIANG ZHENHUAN CNC MACHINE TOOL CO. LTD supplied advanced lathes for the production of electronic warfare technology.
These supplies of high-tech equipment are critical to sustaining Russia's military-industrial complex, even as Western sanctions seek to stifle it. The dual-use nature of these goods allows China to justify continued exports despite global calls to isolate Russia. This cooperation has proven critical to keeping Russia's military machine running, allowing it to continue producing advanced weapons and sustaining its military operations in Ukraine.
The deepening partnership between China and Russia represents a significant geopolitical shift. As China helps Russia circumvent the effects of Western sanctions, it is also establishing itself as a global power capable of challenging the West's economic dominance. This relationship not only supports Russia's defense capabilities, but also complicates global efforts to pressure Moscow to end its aggression against Ukraine.
Source: far-bg.com