China’s growing involvement in Russia’s war in Ukraine is drawing close attention from U.S. policymakers, according to Steve Yates, senior research fellow for China and national security at The Heritage Foundation.
Yates, former deputy assistant to Vice President Dick Cheney for National Security Affairs (2001-2005), warns that Beijing’s support for Moscow complicates efforts to pressure Russia toward peace.
“China has become much more involved in supplying energy and material to Russia that undeniably sustains that war effort,” he said, stressing that the U.S. cannot act alone. “Just as Europe needed to choose between deterrence of Russia and economic opportunity and dependence on Russia, they’re going to have to recognize that China is part of that same condominium.”
Beyond Ukraine, Yates frames China’s broader challenge as a new, multifaceted Cold War encompassing economic, technological, and strategic domains. He highlights the importance of strategic alliances and partnerships as alternatives to China’s transactional approach, including cooperation with the U.S., Japan, South Korea, and Europe.
Yates previously directed the China Policy Initiative at the America First Policy Institute, served as President of Radio Free Asia, and taught international business and politics at Boise State University.
