China’s Foreign Ministry on Thursday voiced skepticism over the effectiveness of Western sanctions in ending the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Speaking at a regular press briefing, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said Beijing doubts that imposing additional sanctions on Russia or increasing pressure on President Vladimir Putin will help resolve the crisis.
Guo emphasized that “coercion and pressure are not the right approach”, reiterating China’s long-standing position that dialogue and negotiation remain the only viable path toward peace.
The remarks come shortly after both the United States and the European Union announced fresh rounds of sanctions targeting Russia’s energy exports, financial entities, and individuals, following a wave of intensified strikes on Ukrainian cities.
China, which has maintained close economic and diplomatic ties with Moscow throughout the war, has consistently refrained from condemning Russia’s actions and has instead called for “balanced and constructive efforts” to promote peace talks.
Guo’s statement reflects Beijing’s continued pushback against Western-led punitive measures, arguing that sanctions risk escalating tensions further rather than fostering a resolution to the nearly three-year-long conflict.
