EU Sanctions Package Targets Crypto Firms in Third Countries, Angering Beijing

China has criticized a proposed European Union sanctions package that targets entities in third countries, including China. The EU's proposed 21st sanctions package against Russia includes measures targeting banks, crypto firms, and oil traders in third countries accused of helping Moscow circumvent existing restrictions.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said Beijing opposes sanctions imposed without authorization from the United Nations Security Council. 'China has always firmly opposed illegal unilateral sanctions that lack basis in international law and authorization from the UN Security Council,' he stated.

The EU and its Western partners have imposed hundreds of sanctions on Russia over the Ukraine war. China has repeatedly raised concerns with the EU over sanctions-related issues and urged the bloc to withdraw what Beijing considers illegal unilateral measures.