China opposes U.S. unilateral sanctions against Chinese companies over alleged involvement with Russia: commerce ministry

China will resolutely safeguard its legitimate rights and interests against malicious actions that suppress or impose sanctions on Chinese enterprises on the alleged involvement with Russia, a spokesperson of China's Ministry of Commerce (MOFCOM) said on Thursday, responding to a question on the U.S.' recent announcement of sanctions against two Chinese entities and one Russian entity citing alleged involvement in the development, production, and transportation of Russian long-range attack drones.

China firmly opposes unilateral sanctions and long-arm jurisdiction that lack any legal basis under international law and are not authorized by the UN Security Council, He Yadong, a spokesperson for the MOFCOM, said on Thursday during a regular press conference.

"China has strict regulations governing the export of military products and dual-use items, requiring enterprises to conduct international trade of controlled items in accordance with the law. Since the Ukraine crisis, China has issued several notices on drone-related controls and has explicitly stipulated that uncontrolled civilian drones must not be used for military purposes in violation of regulations," He stressed, adding that relevant authorities have strengthened the review process for drone export licenses in accordance with laws and intensified inspections against illegal exports.

The U.S. on October 17 announced sanctions targeting three entities including two Chinese companies allegedly linked to the production of drones for Russia.

China firmly opposes the U.S. imposing illegal unilateral sanctions against Chinese companies and does not accept groundless accusation and pressure from the U.S., Mao Ning, a spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, said on October 18, responding to a question on U.S.' sanctions announcement targeting Chinese companies allegedly linked to the production of drones that Russia has deployed in the Ukraine war.

"Let me stress that China is not a creator of or a party to the Ukraine crisis. We are always committed to promoting talks for peace and playing a constructive role for the political settlement. China has never provided lethal weapons to any party of the conflict between Russia and Ukraine. China exercises strict export control over dual-use articles, including drones, and opposes using civilian drones for military purposes," said Mao.

"We urge the U.S. to immediately stop using the Ukraine issue to smear or put pressure on China or impose illegal unilateral sanctions and long-arm jurisdiction on Chinese entities and individuals. China will take all measures necessary to firmly defend the legitimate and lawful rights and interests of Chinese companies and nationals," Mao noted.