US-China Exchange Over Russia Sanctions: "No Lifeline Allowed" vs "Oppose Sanctions"

[Image source=Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Bo-kyung] On the 13th (local time), the United States once again confirmed its determination not to allow China to assist Russia in its invasion of Ukraine.

Jake Sullivan, U.S. National Security Advisor at the White House, stated in interviews with CNN, CBS, and NBC on the same day, "Although China may not have known the full details before Russia's invasion of Ukraine, we believe China was aware that Russia was planning something."

He added, "We are closely monitoring the extent to which China is providing any form of material or economic support to Russia," emphasizing, "This is a matter of concern for us."

He continued, "We have conveyed to China that we will not tolerate or overlook any country compensating for Russia's losses due to economic sanctions," and warned that there will definitely be consequences if China helps evade sanctions.

When asked whether China would be sanctioned if it assists Russia, he reiterated, "We will not allow any country, anywhere in the world, to provide a lifeline to Russia, which is under economic sanctions."

[Image source=Yonhap News]

In response, Zhao Lijian, spokesperson for the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, reaffirmed opposition to sanctions against Russia during a regular briefing on the 14th, stating, "Sanctions have never been an effective procedure for resolving issues."

He added, "China opposes any form of unilateral sanctions and long arm jurisdiction imposed by the United States, and is firmly committed to protecting the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese companies and individuals."

Regarding this, Wendy Sherman, U.S. Deputy Secretary of State, appeared on Fox News and said, "We see that China has grown closer to Russia but is quite uncomfortable with the violation of Ukraine's sovereignty," adding, "China will have to make difficult decisions while being closely watched."

She pointed out that China is already aware of the shock Putin's attack has brought to Russia, stating, "Putin has reversed 30 years of economic development in just two weeks."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.