USA and allies discuss sanctions against China for providing weapons to Russia

 Reuters reports citing four U.S. officials and sources.

The US consultations with its allies, which are still at an early stage, are aimed at garnering the support of a number of countries - especially those in the Group of Seven - to coordinate support for any possible restrictions.

According to Reuters, U.S. officials were laying the groundwork for potential action against Beijing with the core group of countries that were most supportive of sanctions imposed on Russia after its invasion of Ukraine a year ago.

It is not yet clear what kind of sanctions the United States will propose. According to Reuters sources, Washington's steps have not yet led to a broader agreement on any specific restrictive measures against Beijing.

Reuters recalls that in a joint statement by G7 leaders on February 24 - on the occasion of the first anniversary of Russia's full-scale war - third countries called on "third-countries" to "cease providing material support to Russia's war, or face severe costs."

Although China is not mentioned, the US imposed new sanctions on the same day against some Chinese companies accused of helping Russia circumvent restrictive measures.

Earlier, the media reported that the United States had intelligence that the Chinese government was considering supplying Russia with drones and ammunition for use in the war in Ukraine.