NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg has issued a stern warning that NATO countries are contemplating economic sanctions against China for its perceived support of Russia's military actions in Ukraine. Stoltenberg accused China of attempting to maintain relations with both Russia and the West simultaneously, a stance he believes cannot be sustained indefinitely.
In an interview with the BBC, Stoltenberg highlighted concerns over China's role in providing crucial technologies that could aid Russia in developing missiles and other military equipment used in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. He emphasized that if China does not alter its behavior, NATO member states may need to consider imposing economic sanctions as a measure of diplomatic pressure.
Stoltenberg refrained from specifying the nature or scope of potential sanctions against China but underscored the seriousness with which NATO views China's actions. The alliance's discussions on this matter come in the wake of recent moves by the United States to expand sanctions against Russia, targeting entities including Chinese defense firm Poly Technologies and several other companies involved in various sectors.
On June 12, the U.S. Treasury announced an expansion of sanctions against Russia, adding over 300 new restrictions. Among the entities targeted were Chinese companies such as Poly Technologies, DeepCool (a computer equipment manufacturer), and others involved in trade and logistics. These measures were imposed in response to alleged support provided by these entities to Russia's military capabilities.
China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs swiftly condemned the U.S. sanctions, demanding their immediate removal.
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