Jens Asbjørn Bøgen
Beijing also warned that it will firmly safeguard Chinese interests.
Beijing also warned that it will firmly safeguard Chinese interests.
What is happening?
China has publicly denounced Ukraine’s decision to sanction 53 individuals and entities allegedly linked to Russia’s war efforts.
Speaking at a press conference on July 28, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun called the move a “mistake” and demanded its reversal.
Targets Russia and Its Allies
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky signed a decree on July 27 introducing sanctions against a list of foreign actors accused of aiding Russia.
The sweeping measures extend beyond Russian nationals to include individuals and companies from nations allied with Russia.
Beijing Rejects ‘Unilateral’ Measures
China reiterated its longstanding opposition to sanctions that aren’t backed by the United Nations.
“China, as always, opposes unilateral sanctions that have no basis in international law,” Guo stated, insisting Ukraine “correct its mistake at once.”
China Threatens to Defend Its Interests
In a pointed warning, Guo said Beijing would “firmly safeguard” the legitimate rights of its companies.
This signals China’s readiness to push back against what it sees as unfair economic or political targeting.
China’s Support for Russia’s War Machine
Ukrainian officials and Western allies have presented evidence suggesting that China is a key supplier of dual-use goods to Russia—materials that can serve both civilian and military purposes, including drone and missile components.
Allegations of Chemical and Military Supply Lines
On May 25, Ukraine’s Foreign Intelligence Service accused China of sending gunpowder, special chemicals, and other components to 20 Russian defense-related factories.
Denies Military Aid – to Either Side
Despite mounting claims, Beijing continues to deny supplying military-grade goods to Russia or Ukraine.
Chinese officials insist their actions remain within the bounds of international neutrality and commercial legality.
High-Level Diplomatic Show of Unity Ahead
Russian President Vladimir Putin is expected to visit China in September for the Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit.
The anticipated meeting with Xi Jinping will further spotlight the strengthening ties between the two powers.
U.S. Challenges China at U.N. Security Council
During a July 25 U.N. Security Council meeting, the United States directly called on China to stop facilitating Russia’s war.
The move drew immediate backlash from Beijing, which accused Washington of “provoking confrontation.”
