China will take necessary measures to resolutely safeguard the lawful rights and interests of its enterprises, said the spokesperson of the Chinese Embassy in the UK, in response to the UK government's announcement of sanctions targeting a number of foreign entities and individuals, including four Chinese entities, on the pretext of supplying key military equipment to Russia.

Tourists shelter from the sun underneath an umbrella, backdropped by the Elizabeth tower commonly known as "Big Ben" in central London on May 26, 2026. (File photo: AFP)

China firmly opposes the imposition of unilateral sanctions by the UK that is devoid of any basis in international law and undermines the legitimate rights and interests of Chinese enterprises, and has lodged stern representations with the UK over the issue, the spokesperson said.

On the Ukraine crisis, China has always been committed to promoting peace talks and strictly controls the export of dual-use items, said the spokesperson, adding that normal exchanges and cooperation between China and Russia should not be disrupted or affected.

The spokesperson said that China urges the UK side to immediately correct its wrongdoing and revoke sanctions against relevant Chinese entities.