Crimea could become a testing ground for Chinese-Russian cooperation. Ukraine’s Foreign Intelligence Service reports says Sergey Aksyonov has decided to involve Chinese businesses in building transport infrastructure on the occupied peninsula.
China’s official stance on Russia’s war in Ukraine is one of neutrality and calls for peace, but in practice, Beijing has become Russia’s key strategic partner and its main sponsor. Beijing continues to deny supplying weapons, but evidence indicates both material support and the presence of Chinese nationals fighting for Russia in Ukraine.
During a recent meeting, Aksyonov reportedly confirmed preliminary agreements regarding two key sites:
- Kerch Sea Port, which Russia actively uses for “gray” exports,
- Infrastructure around Lake Donuzlav, where a Russian naval base is located.
To finalize the agreement, the occupying authorities in Crimea plan to invite potential Chinese builders to visit the peninsula. Among them is China State Construction Engineering Corporation, one of the world’s largest companies in rail and transportation construction.
The total capital involved is estimated at $10 billion, according to Ukrainian intelligence.
Meanwhile, Ukrainian partisans report that security measures across Crimea have intensified. In Simferopol, Aksyonov’s convoy was spotted with a vehicle equipped with electronic warfare systems.
Following recent operations by Ukraine’s Defense Forces, Aksyonov reportedly fears an FPV drone strike targeting his assassination. As a result, his public appearances have become rare, and his movements are increasingly secretive and rapid.