China Cracks Down on Military Drone Sales Following Ukrainian Foreign Minister’s Visit

China has announced stricter controls on the export of military drones following the visit of Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba. According to Bloomberg, as of September 1, 2024, drones equipped with high-precision measurement technology will be added to a blacklist maintained by several Chinese agencies, including the Central Military Commission. This change amends a previously published list from the previous year.

The decision is a response to criticism from the United States and European officials. Earlier, China had lifted restrictions on the export of consumer drones, but the Ministry of Commerce emphasized that civilian equipment should not be used for the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, terrorism, or military purposes.

European officials have expressed concerns that Chinese and Russian companies are developing strike drones similar to Iranian Shahed drones. China has denied these allegations, stating that it does not supply weapons to any side in the conflict and strictly controls the export of dual-use goods. The Ministry of Commerce of China reiterated that the country opposes the use of drones for non-peaceful purposes and against sanctions imposed on Chinese companies and individuals based on their use.