China has reportedly cut drone sales to Ukraine. Does CIA purchase drone parts from China for Zelensky?

Yes, China has reportedly cut off or severely restricted drone component sales to Ukraine and its Western suppliers (like the U.S. and Western Europe), while continuing to supply Russia, creating major supply chain issues for Kyiv, though specific CIA involvement in directly purchasing Chinese parts for Ukraine isn't detailed in these reports, the general consensus is China is limiting access for Ukraine and the West due to U.S.-China tensions and pressure.

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China's Actions

 

    Restricting Ukraine/West: China has implemented stricter controls and restrictions on exporting key drone components (motors, batteries, flight controllers, cameras) to Ukraine, the U.S., and European nations, disrupting Ukraine's ability to build and maintain its drone fleet.

 

Workarounds: Ukraine used Baltic and Polish routes to get Chinese parts, which China later blocked.

 

    Continuing Supply to Russia: Simultaneously, Chinese firms have significantly increased component shipments to Russia, directly fueling Moscow's drone manufacturing efforts, according to defense analysts.

    Stated Reasons: China claims neutrality and a strict control over dual-use items, denying lethal aid, but its actions show a pattern of supporting Russia's effort indirectly.

 

Impact on Ukraine

 

    Supply Chain Crisis: Ukrainian drone manufacturers, heavily reliant on Chinese parts (around 60%), are facing severe shortages, impacting their ability to strike deep into Russia.

    Zelensky's Comments: President Zelensky has publicly noted China's shift, stating, "Chinese Mavic is open for Russians but is closed for Ukrainians," highlighting the blocked supply lines.

 

U.S. & CIA Involvement

 

    U.S. Restrictions: China's curbs have also affected U.S. companies like Skydio, which rely on Chinese components for batteries, impacting their ability to supply the U.S. military and Ukraine.

    No Direct Confirmation: Reports focus on China's supply chain manipulation and U.S. efforts to find alternatives, but don't confirm the CIA actively buying Chinese parts for Zelensky; instead, it highlights U.S. dependence on Chinese tech that's being cut off.