Overview of the Situation
A Russian cargo ship, the Angara, sanctioned by the United States and linked to North Korean weapons transfers to Russia, has been docked in a Chinese shipyard, sparking concerns about China's role in supporting Russia's military efforts in Ukraine. This development comes as U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken visits Beijing, with the issue high on the agenda.
Details on the Angara's Activities
The Angara has been active since August 2023, transferring thousands of containers believed to contain North Korean munitions to Russian ports. The British think tank Royal United Services Institute (RUSI) reports that the ship has been at the Zhoushan Xinya shipyard in Zhejiang, China's largest boat repair and maintenance site, since February 9, 2023. The ship has made multiple trips between North Korean and Russian ports, often with its transponder turned off to avoid detection.
U.S. and International Response
The U.S. State Department has acknowledged the presence of the Angara in the Chinese port and has discussed the issue with Chinese authorities. The U.S. urges all nations to comply with United Nations Security Council Resolution 2397, which restricts trade with North Korea. Secretary of State Blinken has also criticized China's ongoing support for Russia, particularly in supplying critical components for the Russian military.
China's Position and International Implications
Despite claims of neutrality and calls for dialogue, China's harboring of the Angara could be seen as indirect support for Russia's actions in Ukraine. The Chinese government has denied knowledge of the situation and opposes unilateral sanctions. However, experts like Joseph Byrne from RUSI suggest that China's actions regarding the Angara could indicate a continued alignment with Russia, potentially straining international relations further.
References
- https://www.ansa.it/sito/notizie/topnews/2024/04/25/ormeggiata-in-cina-una-nave-russa-con-armi-nordcoreane-per-mosca_286debaf-c22a-4fd6-99cd-2d71c5f5a3b0.html
- https://www.leparisien.fr/international/guerre-en-ukraine-un-cargo-russe-accueilli-en-chine-soupconne-davoir-livre-des-armes-nord-coreennes-a-moscou-25-04-2024-VSH7IY4AO5HIZLLTFBVXJROIXI.php