The U.S. warns China to help Russia: We are watching you carefully

Mr Sullivan said that China “absolutely” would face consequences if it helps Russia avoid Western sanctions.

“We will not allow this to happen and Russia will have a source of relief from these economic sanctions from any country, anywhere in the world”, he said.

Mr. Sullivan made comments on CNN Sunday before Monday's meeting with Chinese top diplomat Yang Yechi in Rome.

Mr Sullivan said the United States believed that China knew Russia was planning action in Ukraine before aggression began, though it may not have known the size.

Mr Sullivan said Washington was carefully following Beijing's actions to see how much it could help Russia.

Russia said Sunday that it was relying on China to help it cope with its impact on its economy by Western sanctions.

An American official said Russia had asked China for military equipment to be used in aggression against Ukraine, a demand that raises tensions over war prior to the meeting in Rome.

The American official, speaking unidently, said that in recent days, Russia had sought support from China, including military equipment, to continue the war in Ukraine. The official did not provide further details.

The prospect that China offers Russia financial assistance is one of President Joe Biden's concerns.

Russia and China have recently strengthened co-operation, as both are under strong Western pressure on human rights and a host of other issues. But Russian intervention in Ukraine has also put China in a difficult position with two of its biggest trade partners: The US and the European Union. China needs access to those markets.

Beijing, however, has not condemned Russia's attack on Ukraine, but has sought a negotiated solution.(American Voice)