US would sanction Chinese firms if they supply weapons to Russia

Astana, Feb 28 (EFE).- The United States would draw up punitive measures against Chinese companies and individuals that violate sanctions in place against Russia or provide it with lethal assistance in its invasion of Ukraine, the secretary of state said Tuesday.

Antony Blinken gave the remarks during a press conference in Astana, where he met with representatives of Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan.

“We did very clearly warn China about the implications of going through with providing such support, we will not hesitate to target Chinese companies or individuals that violate our sanctions or otherwise engage in supporting the Russian war effort,” he said.

Blinken has previously said the US had information that China was considering supplying lethal assistance to Russia.

“This is not only something that would be a serious problem for China’s relationship with us but a serious problem for its relationship with countries around the world.”

“China can’t have it both ways when it comes to the Russian aggression in Ukraine.”

Blinken is due to travel to Uzbekistan and then India, where on Wednesday he will take part in a meeting of G20 foreign ministers. EFE

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