China Nation 'Decisive Enabler' Of Russia's War Against Ukraine

Nato leaders have labelled China a "decisive enabler" of Russia's war against Ukraine and called its deepening ties with Moscow a cause of "deep concern", in what has been seen as the most serious rebuke against Beijing from the alliance.

- Amy Hawkins

The final communique, approved by the 32 Nato members at the summit in Washington, also highlights concerns about Beijing's nuclear arsenal and its capabilities in space.

"I think the message sent from Nato from this summit is very strong and very clear, and we are clearly defining China's responsibility when it comes to enabling Russia's war," the Nato secretary general, Jens Stoltenberg said, calling the statement an important message.

Nato leaders have urged China "to cease all material and political support to Russia's war effort", saying Beijing is now a large-scale supporter of Russia's "defence industrial base".

Beijing insists that it does not provide direct military aid to Russia, but it has kept strong trade ties with its neighbour since it invaded Ukraine.