Risks Linked to Chinese Technology
Sergei Beskrestnov, known by the call sign "Flash," who serves as an advisor to Ukraine’s defense minister, has raised alarms about Chinese-manufactured uninterruptible power supplies that remain connected to the internet. He urged government agencies to disconnect these devices from the network, stressing the need for tighter security protocols. This advisory comes after power supply conditions in Ukraine recently stabilized. Beskrestnov noted that the military has already implemented the necessary protective measures at his initiative.
In May, Reuters reported that hidden communication modules—including cellular radios—had been discovered in Chinese inverters. Under Chinese law, domestic companies are required to cooperate with state intelligence agencies, which increases the risk for users of such equipment. In November 2024, inverters in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Pakistan were remotely shut down from China due to a commercial dispute, further highlighting the danger of remote access capabilities.
International Security Responses
Lithuania has passed a law blocking Chinese remote access to solar and wind energy installations with a capacity exceeding 100 kW. Estonia and the United Kingdom are also conducting their own reviews, recognizing the threats posed by Chinese systems. Commenting on the situation, Beskrestnov stated:
'I would strongly recommend disconnecting backup power systems used by state agencies and departments from a constant internet connection. Otherwise, you risk facing problems at the worst possible moment.' – Sergei Beskrestnov
Additionally, a Bloomberg investigation revealed that China had accessed secret systems of the British government for over a decade, including classified documents and diplomatic communications. This underscores the seriousness of the threats that can arise from vulnerabilities in Chinese-made systems. According to a source familiar with the Reuters report, 'This is essentially a built-in way to physically destroy the power grid.'
In April 2026, Russia attempted to assassinate Beskrestnov: guided Shahed drones struck his home, injuring him and completely destroying the house and vehicles. This incident highlights the volatile environment in which Beskrestnov operates, as he continues to actively advocate for the security of electrical systems.
Beskrestnov’s warnings highlight the growing concern among Ukrainian state institutions over the safety of electrical systems, especially in the context of global threats from Chinese technology. Remote access to critical infrastructure has become a topic of international debate, prompting stricter oversight and regulation of Chinese devices in countries such as Lithuania, Estonia, and the United Kingdom. These steps may prove essential in preventing potential cyber threats and safeguarding national security.
As concerns over security vulnerabilities in technology continue to rise, it's worth noting that other countries are also taking measures to protect their critical infrastructure. For instance, Russia has disabled certain surveillance systems due to fears surrounding AI security, reflecting a growing global trend towards enhancing cybersecurity protocols in the face of international threats. This highlights the importance of vigilance in managing technological dependencies.