China’s government sharply criticized the European Union and the United Kingdom on Wednesday for imposing new sanctions against several Chinese companies accused of supporting Russia’s war effort. The Chinese Foreign Ministry called the measures “unreasonable” and claimed they reflect Western “double standards.”

“The majority of countries, including in Europe and the United States, continue to trade with Russia,” said ministry spokesperson Mao Ning, accusing the EU of selectively applying punitive trade policies. She added that Beijing is “strongly dissatisfied and resolutely opposed” to the sanctions.

China Vows Retaliation

Speaking at a press briefing, Mao warned that China would take “necessary measures” to safeguard its legitimate interests. While specific countermeasures were not detailed, China’s reaction signals a readiness to escalate trade tensions if EU pressure continues.

The EU’s latest sanctions package—announced Tuesday alongside British measures—includes firms in China allegedly involved in circumventing export controls and providing material support to Russia.

Deepening East-West Trade Divide

The dispute over sanctions comes amid a larger geopolitical rift between China and the West, intensified by the Ukraine war and global competition over semiconductors, critical minerals, and maritime security. Beijing has consistently opposed Western-led sanctions regimes, particularly those that implicate Chinese firms in the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

As the EU mulls further steps to tighten economic pressure on Moscow, China’s economic and diplomatic alignment with Russia continues to complicate Western unity on sanctions enforcement.