US Warns China of Consequences if Russia Gains in Ukraine, Tensions Rise Between Washington and Beijing
The US warned China on Tuesday that it will hold Beijing responsible if Russia makes gains in Ukraine.
Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell, who is known for US policy toward Asia, emphasized the importance of maintaining peace and stability in Europe for the US.
With Russia renewing its offensive in Ukraine amid a deadlock in US Congress on approving more weapons, Campbell warned that Russian territorial gains could alter the balance of power in Europe and impact US-China relations.
The US Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for European and Eurasian Affairs, Matthew Campbell, spoke to the National Committee on US-China Relations about Russia's activities in Ukraine and its connections to China and North Korea.
Campbell expressed concern that these countries were backing Russia's actions, which are against US interests.
He mentioned that the Biden administration had warned Chinese officials about intelligence indicating a potential Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, but it's unclear if they fully believed the US.
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov visited China, where President Xi Jinping expressed readiness to strengthen coordination between the two countries.
China was concerned about Russia's early setbacks in Ukraine and worked to help Moscow rebuild its capacities as a defensive measure.
However, over two years later, Russia has significantly strengthened its position and poses a threat to Ukraine and the surrounding region.
The US has warned China of sanctions if it provides more substantial support to Russia.
Russia is reportedly turning to weapons from North Korea and Iran, both under heavy sanctions, to fuel its war in Ukraine.