China Warns Ukraine Against Sanctioning Chinese Companies Over Alleged Support for Russia

China has called on Ukraine to refrain from imposing sanctions on Chinese companies and citizens over their alleged involvement in supporting Russia’s war against Ukraine, warning it will take steps to protect its interests if such measures are introduced, Ukrinform reported on December 23.

Speaking at a regular press briefing on December 23, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said Beijing firmly opposes unilateral sanctions that are not authorized by the United Nations Security Council.

“China consistently opposes unilateral sanctions that violate international law and are not endorsed by the UN Security Council,” Lin said.

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His remarks came in response to recent statements by Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who announced that Kyiv is preparing new sanctions targeting individuals and entities accused of assisting Russia’s aggression, including those from countries other than Russia.

Lin criticized the approach, saying “the Ukrainian side should correct its behavior and refrain from taking unjustified actions against China.”

He added that Beijing would respond if Chinese individuals or companies are included in Ukraine’s sanctions lists.

“China will take necessary measures to safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of its enterprises and citizens,” Lin said. “We reserve the right to respond.”

China has repeatedly stated that it maintains a neutral position on the war in Ukraine while opposing sanctions not approved by the UN, even as Kyiv and its allies accuse Chinese entities of indirectly supporting Russia’s military efforts.

Earlier, it was reported that Russia’s liquefied natural gas exports to China hit a record high in November, as Chinese buyers increased purchases of discounted Russian fuel despite the risk of Western sanctions.

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