“Beijing has to make its own choices, even when it comes to military aid to Russia,” Sullivan told CNN. “But if it decides to do it, it will cost China a lot.” China has already toyed with the idea of providing support to Russia, and while no concrete plans have yet been presented, China has not publicly denied support.
US representatives briefed their Chinese equivalents behind closed doors on the consequences of possible cooperation, according to Sullivan, though he would not say what was discussed during those private conversations.
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Both the US and its NATO allies attempted last week to reach out to China and advise against possible aid to Russia, believing that China is indeed capable of providing military support. Even the American intelligence service CIA has indications in this regard. “We’re sure of it,” said CIA Director William Burns. “From our intelligence, China has not yet made a final decision and there are no signs that military equipment is on the way.”