EU Plans Sanctions on Chinese Refineries for Evasion of Russia Restrictions

The European Union is preparing its 19th package of sanctions against Russia, which notably includes four Chinese companies—two independent oil refineries, a trading firm, and another entity mainly outside the oil sector—accused of helping Moscow circumvent Western restrictions. This marks the most economically significant sanctioning of Chinese entities by the EU, which has previously targeted Chinese firms involved in drone production, dual-use goods, and small banks linked to Russia. Despite China's claims of conducting "normal trade," the EU, Ukraine, and allied nations view China as a key facilitator of Russia's sanctions evasion. The package, pending unanimous approval and delayed by unrelated issues from Slovakia, is expected to be adopted soon and also includes measures like a ban on Russian liquefied natural gas starting in 2027 and restrictions on Russia's shadow tanker fleet and military-industrial complex. Meanwhile, Chinese imports of Russian oil have increased slightly month-on-month, with China remaining the largest buyer, even as U.S. President Donald Trump pressures China and India to reduce their purchases. The EU's efforts, coordinated with the G7 nations, aim to further diminish Russia's ability to finance its war in Ukraine through these economic sanctions.