The European Union is preparing the 19th package of sanctions against Russia, which for the first time will include two independent Chinese oil refineries and one trading company involved in circumventing Western restrictions. Diplomatic sources in Brussels reported this, according to Reuters, writes UNN.
Details
According to sources, the sanctions list will also include another organization from China that operates mainly outside the oil sector but is involved in schemes to circumvent sanctions. Details are not yet disclosed.
The EU is increasing pressure on Beijing, which, according to European diplomats, plays a key role in helping Moscow avoid restrictions. EU Special Representative for Sanctions David O'Sullivan previously stated that China still calls its cooperation with Russia "normal trade," despite evidence to the contrary.
This is not the first time Chinese companies have been sanctioned by the EU, but the current restrictions are considered the most significant for the economy. Previously, Brussels punished Chinese firms involved in drone production and the supply of dual-use goods to Russia, and in July, two small Chinese banks were added to the list, which prompted retaliatory measures from Beijing against Lithuanian financial institutions.