China Criticizes US Sanctions on Chinese Firms for Supplying Russia

China criticized the U.S. decision last week to sanction Chinese companies for allegedly helping Russia evade trade restrictions (see 2402230035). A Foreign Ministry spokesperson said Feb. 26 that China “maintains an objective and impartial position” on the Russia-Ukraine war, and “normal trade and economic cooperation between China and Russia is not targeted at any third party or subject to any interference by any third party.” The spokesperson said Beijing “firmly opposes illegal unilateral sanctions against Chinese companies and will take necessary measures to resolutely protect the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese companies.” The remarks were in response to a TASS news agency question during a regular press conference in Beijing.