ISW suggests why Lukashenko is flying to China

The Institute for the Study of War (ISW) reported this. 

American analysts suggest that Alexander Lukashenko plans to meet with Chinese leader Xi Jinping to help Russia and China evade sanctions amid reports that Beijing is seriously considering sending lethal aid to Moscow for the war with Ukraine.

Lukashenko announced plans to visit China from February 28 to March 2 and meet with Xi Jinping to sign agreements on trade, investment, large-scale joint projects, etc. He also plans to meet with high-ranking Chinese officials and heads of Chinese corporations.

Lukashenko's announcement of the visit coincides with reports from CNN and The Washington Post that senior US officials believe China is seriously considering selling combat drones, weapons, and 122mm and 152mm artillery shells to Russia.

“Russian and Chinese officials have also reportedly developed plans for the shipment of drones to Russia under falsified shipping documents to avoid international sanctions measures. China may seek to use agreements with Belarus to obfuscate violations of sanctions,” the ISW concluded. 

On February 25, Alexander Lukashenko announced that he would pay a visit to China from February 28 to March 2. 

• On February 26, CIA Director William Burns confirmed that the Chinese authorities are considering the possibility of transferring lethal weapons to Russia, but a final decision has not yet been made.