What's happened
Recent reports suggest that a Chinese company has supplied military drones to Russia for use in Ukraine, marking a significant escalation in military cooperation between the two nations. NATO and U.S. officials have expressed deep concern over these developments, which could further complicate the geopolitical landscape.
Why it matters
What the papers say
According to Deborah Haynes from Sky News, the allegations of drone supplies from China to Russia are 'deeply concerning' for NATO, which is currently consulting on the matter. The White House has also expressed apprehension, noting that while there is no evidence of direct Chinese government involvement, the responsibility lies with China to prevent its companies from aiding Russia's military efforts. Business Insider UK highlights that experts view this partnership as plausible, suggesting that military cooperation between Russia and China is deeper than previously acknowledged. The Guardian emphasizes the urgency of the situation, stating that NATO allies are alarmed by the potential implications of this military collaboration. Overall, the reports from multiple sources underscore a growing concern over the evolving military relationship between China and Russia.
How we got here
Tensions have escalated between Russia and Ukraine since the latter's invasion in 2022. Accusations of military support from China to Russia have been ongoing, but recent reports indicate a more direct involvement, including the development of a new drone model in China for Russian military use.
More on these topics
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Ukraine is a country in Eastern Europe. It is the second-largest European country after Russia, which borders it to the east and northeast.
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China, officially the People's Republic of China, is a country in East Asia. It is the world's most populous country, with a population of around 1.4 billion in 2019.
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Russia, or the Russian Federation, is a transcontinental country located in Eastern Europe and Northern Asia. Covering an area of 17,125,200 square kilometres, it is the largest country in the world by area, spanning more than one-eighth of the Earth's in
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Vladimir Vladimirovich Putin is a Russian politician and former intelligence officer who has served as President of Russia since 2012, previously holding the position from 1999 until 2008.
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The North Atlantic Treaty Organization, also called the North Atlantic Alliance, is an intergovernmental military alliance between 30 North American and European countries.