As Russia tries to soften the impact of economic sanctions imposed by some countries in response to its invasion, China has become an increasingly important trading partner.

It has been reported that Beijing is considering supplying weapons and ammunition to Russia, an allegation that China strongly denies. Currently, China is the world’s fourth largest exporter of arms after the United States and Russia.

Siemon Wezeman, director of the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, says China’s weapons are becoming more advanced.

“Russia would be very interested in its drones, for example.”

According to the US, Chinese firms have already provided “non-lethal support” to Russia, with new information suggesting that Beijing could soon provide “lethal support”.

An economic sanctions expert at the International Institute of Strategic Studies says China may be selling Russia hi-tech products that could be used for military purposes secretly, not overtly.