Ukraine has announced sanctions against three Chinese companies it says are helping Russia build deadly missile systems used in the ongoing war.
The move comes after a Russian Iskander missile attack on the city of Kharkiv killed one person and wounded nearly 100 others, including several children.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said the banned firms played a role in supplying or manufacturing components for Russia’s Iskander missiles. These short-range missiles are capable of carrying nuclear warheads and have been used frequently in strikes on Ukrainian cities.
The three Chinese companies targeted by Ukraine’s sanctions are Beijing Aviation And Aerospace Xianghui Technology Co. Ltd, Rui Jin Machinery Co. Ltd, and Zhongfu Shenying Carbon Fiber Xining Co. Ltd. All are officially based in China but are believed to be active in supporting Russia’s defense industry.
Ukrainian officials accuse the firms of violating international laws and fueling aggression by enabling Russia’s weapons production during the war. The government said these sanctions are part of a broader effort to expose and punish foreign suppliers helping Russia prolong the conflict.
China has repeatedly denied providing military support to Russia, insisting it maintains a neutral stance in the war. However, Ukraine’s action is likely to add pressure on Beijing as global scrutiny grows over its trade and technology ties with Moscow.
This development marks another strain in international relations, as Ukraine continues to seek greater accountability for those assisting Russia’s military operations.