Beijing: China on Wednesday criticized a proposed new European Union sanctions package against Russia that could target entities in third countries, including China. The response came a day after European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen unveiled the EU's proposed 21st sanctions package against Russia, which includes measures targeting banks, crypto firms, and oil traders in third countries accused of helping Moscow circumvent existing restrictions.

According to Anadolu Agency, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian stated that Beijing opposes sanctions imposed without authorization from the United Nations Security Council. Lin emphasized that "China has always firmly opposed illegal unilateral sanctions that lack basis in international law and authorization from the UN Security Council," during a regular press briefing in Beijing.

Lin further noted that China would closely monitor the situation and take necessary measures to protect its legitimate rights and interests. He pointed out that China had repeatedly raised concerns with the EU regarding sanctions-related issues and urged the bloc to withdraw measures that Beijing considers illegal and unilateral.

Beijing has consistently criticized unilateral sanctions imposed outside the framework of the UN Security Council, arguing that such measures undermine international law and harm the legitimate rights and interests of companies and individuals from third countries. The EU and its Western partners have imposed hundreds of sanctions on Russia in response to the Ukraine war.