China on Saturday strongly criticised the European Union for including Chinese entities in its latest sanctions package against Russia, warning of possible retaliation if the move is not reversed.
China’s commerce ministry said it “firmly opposes” the decision and demanded that the European Union immediately remove Chinese firms from the sanctions list.
The EU’s 20th round of sanctions targets third-country suppliers of critical high-tech items, including companies accused of providing dual-use goods or weapons systems to Russia’s military-industrial complex.
In a statement, the ministry said the decision undermines mutual trust and runs counter to the understanding reached between Chinese and EU leaders. It added that the move could affect the stability of bilateral relations.
China also warned it would take “necessary measures” to protect its companies, saying the consequences of the decision would fall on the EU side.