The European Union has approved its 17th sanctions package in response to Russia’s aggression in Ukraine, aiming to curb Russia’s economic and military capabilities. This time, the sanctions target not only Russia’s “shadow fleet” and energy sector but also Chinese companies, prompting a strong protest from China. China deems these measures “unfounded” and accuses the EU of “double standards,” escalating global economic tensions.
The EU’s 17th sanctions package includes restrictions on 189 vessels belonging to Russia’s “shadow fleet,” which are involved in transporting Russian oil. Additionally, the sanctions target three Chinese entities, including state-owned companies, which the EU claims supply Russia with components for unmanned aerial vehicles.
China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Mao Ning, stated that the EU’s sanctions are “unfounded” and violate international law and UN Security Council resolutions. She emphasized China’s support for a peaceful resolution to the Ukraine crisis and its strict control over the export of dual-use products. Mao also noted that European and North American countries, including the US, continue trade relations with Russia, which she called a sign of “double standards.” China declared it would take “necessary measures” to protect its legitimate interests, though specific actions were not detailed.
Ukraine, for its part, presented the EU with a “White Paper” proposing strengthened sanctions, including secondary sanctions on countries like China that purchase Russian oil. This initiative stems from uncertainty in US sanctions policy, positioning the EU as a leader. However, imposing secondary sanctions on China is challenging due to the significant trade relationship between the EU and China and China’s growing economic influence on global markets.
China’s protest against sanctions is not new. In February 2025, following the EU’s 16th sanctions package, China’s Commerce Ministry stated that such measures “negatively impact” trade relations with the EU. It called on the EU to stop sanctioning Chinese companies and individuals, arguing that this contradicts the consensus reached between the two sides’ leaders. China’s consistent stance is that it will not accept sanctions without a response, which could lead to trade restrictions against the EU.
