A recent report by The Japan Times, cited by LA.LV, claims that China is indirectly supplying Russia with critical materials and dual-use components to sustain its war efforts. According to trade data, Russia imported Chinese-made drones worth $125 million via Thailand in 2025, signaling that Bangkok has become a key intermediary in circumventing Western sanctions. Analysts suggest that continued access to Chinese technology and materials is enabling Russia’s drone production and broader military operations, raising concerns about growing alignment between Moscow and Beijing.

Drone Supply via Thailand

Trade statistics show that $125 million worth of Chinese-made drones were exported to Russia through Thailand during the first 11 months of 2025. This accounted for 88% of Thailand’s total drone exports and was eight times the volume from the previous year. Experts interpret this as evidence of a deliberate supply chain designed to bypass sanctions and maintain Moscow’s operational capabilities.

Broader Military and Strategic Ties

Investigations indicate that, between 2023 and 2024, Chinese firms supplied at least $61 million worth of components to Russian companies already under sanctions. Analysts highlight that these dual-use materials are critical for sustaining Russia’s drone production, weapon systems, and general war readiness. The report suggests that this covert cooperation could intensify in 2026 if current patterns persist.

Geopolitical Alignment

Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin have strengthened bilateral ties in recent years, with both leaders formalizing agreements to expand trade in national currencies and reduce dependence on Western financial systems. Analysts view the military cooperation as part of a broader strategic alignment that is quietly supporting Russia’s campaign in Ukraine despite international scrutiny.

Implications for Global Sanctions

The Thailand-mediated supply chain underscores the difficulty of enforcing Western sanctions on Russia, especially when indirect routes are used. European governments have reportedly struggled to persuade Beijing to take a more active role in ending the conflict, highlighting the challenges in monitoring dual-use exports.

Key Entities

Recipient of Chinese military components via indirect trade routes.
Alleged supplier of dual-use components and drone technology to Russia.
Supports closer strategic alignment with Russia.
Oversees expansion of Russia’s military capabilities with foreign-sourced materials.
Acts as an intermediary in drone exports from China to Russia.

Final Verdict

The report suggests that despite sanctions and international pressure, Russia continues to benefit from Chinese-supplied materials, indirectly routed through Thailand. This cooperation demonstrates the challenges of enforcing global arms restrictions and indicates an emerging strategic alignment between Moscow and Beijing. Continued monitoring of such trade flows is essential to assess the impact on the ongoing conflict and the effectiveness of Western sanctions.