U.S. Senator Ben Cardin says Chinese officials should recognize that any potential military support to Russia amid the Ukraine war would carry repercussions. He conveyed this warning after a briefing with Fox News, underscoring that Washington could respond with sanctions targeting the Chinese government if such aid materializes.
Cardin stressed that China must understand there will be consequences. He noted that the United States has already taken steps to isolate Russia economically and suggested that a similar approach could be used toward China should it choose to assist Moscow.
In the senator’s view, Beijing should align with history’s course by refusing to back Russia. He urged China to stand with the United States in pressuring Russia to halt aggression and engage seriously in diplomatic channels. Cardin also highlighted that the White House has expressed concerns about Beijing’s stance, even as he argued that cooperation with the United States would be in China’s best interests regarding Ukraine.
Representative voices have repeatedly warned that claims of U.S. military aid to Russia create a dangerous dynamic. China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has condemned threats and asserted that external parties should refrain from pressuring Beijing with accusations of backing Moscow. The broader message from Cardin and allied lawmakers is a clear appeal to China to avoid actions that could complicate the alliance between Washington and its partners as they pursue a resolution to the conflict.