EU Plans Sanctions on China for Supplying Russia Drone Engines

The European Union is preparing to impose sanctions on China due to its covert support for Russia's war against Ukraine, particularly involving the secret shipment of Chinese-made drone engines to Russia through front companies disguised as industrial refrigeration units. This move follows a July Reuters investigation and has alarmed European capitals, with fifteen EU member states confronting Beijing, which has either denied involvement or remained silent. EU diplomats revealed that they had knowledge of these transfers even before the media reports and emphasize that China's support significantly escalates the conflict, asserting that without it, the war would look very different. While the EU seeks dialogue with China, officials stress the need for concrete actions and believe the bloc holds sufficient economic leverage to enforce sanctions after August. Despite the tensions, Chinese companies continue expanding into the European market, including plans to launch Chinese-made drones and electric vehicles in Europe. The EU's push for sanctions reflects growing frustration over Beijing's alignment with Moscow and its role in undermining international sanctions regimes.