US warns China of consequences if it aids Russia in Ukraine

WASHINGTON

The US issued a sharp warning to China on Monday, telling Beijing it would likely face "consequences" if it materially supports Russia's war against Ukraine.

A senior Defense Department official who briefed reporters on condition of anonymity did not specify what the consequences from the Biden administration would be, but said Washington would be watching "very, very closely" for any potential material support.

"We have seen China basically give tacit approval to what Russia is doing by refusing to join sanctions, by blaming the West and the United States for the assistance we've given Ukraine, by claiming they wanted to see a peaceful outcome but essentially doing nothing to achieve it," the official said.

"Again, we'll watch this closely, but I don't have anything specific to speak to with this, to actual material support," he added.

The official declined to specify what sort of consequences are being considered.

The comments come after multiple reports over the weekend that cited an anonymous US official who said Russia has asked China for military and economic aid. Russia and China have denied the reports.

Russia's war against Ukraine, which began on Feb. 24, has drawn international condemnation, led to financial sanctions on Moscow, and spurred an exodus of global firms from Russia.

At least 596 civilians have been killed and 1,067 injured in Ukraine since the beginning of the war, according to the UN. It has warned, however, that the true toll is likely much higher as it not been able to gain access to areas of increased hostilities.

Some 2.8 million people have also fled to neighboring countries, said the UN refugee agency.