Russia is in discussion with a Chinese manufacturer for the purchase of 100 drones, according to the German newspaper
Der Spiegel
, which does not, however, cite specific sources.
Several Western countries, including the United States and Germany, have warned China in recent days, urging it not to sell arms to Russia.
While North Korea and Iran have been accused of selling weapons to Moscow, which is grappling with harsh Western sanctions, China has so far stayed away.
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The Chinese manufacturer ready to deliver 100 drones
Der Spiegel,
however, claims Chinese drone maker Xian Bingo Intelligent Aviation Technology has said it is ready to manufacture 100 prototypes of its ZT-180 drone which the German magazine says could carry a 35-50kg warhead. .
"I have told the representatives of China that this cannot be accepted,"
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz told public television ZDF on Thursday, when asked about possible Chinese aid to Russia.
Read alsoWar in Ukraine: Russia has requested military aid from China, according to the New York Times
These Chinese-made drones are said to be similar to the Iranian Shaheed-136, with which Russia has launched countless attacks against Ukraine, killing hundreds and damaging civilian infrastructure.
According to
Der Spiegel,
the Chinese company also intends to help establish a production site for its drones in Russia, where up to 100 devices could be manufactured per month.