China Rejects EU Claims of Military Training Involvement with Russia Amid Fresh Sanctions

China has dismissed assertions by the European Union’s chief diplomat that its military has trained Russian troops involved in Ukraine. The denial reflects China’s position of neutrality in the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine. However, China has echoed some of Russia’s viewpoints, particularly the blame placed on NATO expansion. Despite this, China continues to build diplomatic and economic relations with Russia, becoming a significant purchaser of Russian oil and gas amidst U.S.-imposed sanctions.

The United States and its allies, including the EU, have long criticized China for allegedly aiding Russia’s military activities through various trade and export activities. Kaja Kallas, who heads the EU’s foreign affairs and security policy, accused China of more direct support, referring to China as a ‘decisive enabler’ of Russia’s invasion. Kallas claimed verification of Chinese military training for Russian personnel but did not provide further specifics during her announcement following a meeting in Luxembourg.

China promptly dismissed the allegations. “The remarks have no factual basis and are purely slander and smears,” said Lin Jian, a spokesperson for China’s Foreign Ministry, during a press briefing in Beijing. Newsweek contacted the Russian Foreign Ministry and the European External Action Service for their comments on the matter.

Meanwhile, the European Council recently targeted 21 entities and seven individuals with sanctions, accusing them of aiding Russia’s military-industrial efforts. Among those sanctioned was the Chinese electronics firm Shenzhen Minghuaxin, accused of supplying drone components to Russia. Another company, Xinxiang Richful Lubricant Additive Company, faced sanctions for its products crucial to military equipment and industrial machinery.

This announcement came shortly after Russia launched one of its largest aerial attacks on Ukraine, involving 70 missiles and 611 drones. These attacks resulted in 11 deaths and international condemnation, especially after a cathedral and monastery were struck. Ukraine responded with a drone strike on the Moscow Oil Refinery, a critical supplier of petroleum to Moscow.