The EU is preparing to sanction four Chinese companies accused of supporting Russia’s war in Ukraine. These firms allegedly provide components for attack drones, chemicals for the military, and assistance to Russia’s “shadow fleet.”

According to Politico, in addition to the Chinese firms, the sanctions proposal targets five companies in the UAE, three in Turkey, one in Azerbaijan, and subsidiaries of the Russian energy company Lukoil for helping facilitate Russian shipping and energy sales.

This move is expected to heighten existing tensions between Brussels and Beijing, adding to current trade disputes over subsidized Chinese imports. China has already threatened “resolute countermeasures.”

These sanctions are part of a “mini-package” expected to be adopted by EU foreign ministers by mid-June 2026.

A broader, 21st package of sanctions is planned for later in the summer. EU countries are currently debating its contents, which may include locking in a price cap on Russian oil to restrict Moscow’s energy revenues. Some Nordic and Baltic countries are also pushing for comprehensive sanctions against major Russian energy and nuclear firms.