ISTANBUL

China on Monday reiterated its opposition to what it called “illegal and unilateral” sanction” on Russia amid Moscow launching war in Ukraine.

“China does not approve sanctions to resolve problems,” said Foreign Ministry spokesman Wang Wenbin, as reported by Chinese public broadcaster CGTN.

He said Beijing “has always opposed unilateral sanctions above international law.”

Beijing’s reiteration of its stance came as Russia’s attack on Ukraine entered its fifth day on Monday, triggering international condemnation with barrage of sanctions on Moscow, including blocking access to the SWIFT international banking system.

“China asks all sides to show restraint to avoid exacerbating Russia-Ukraine tensions,” Wang said.

China opposed sanctions on Russia on Friday, a day after Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a military operation against Ukraine.

“China opposes any illegal sanctions that harm Russia’s legitimate rights and interests,” Wang had told a news conference in Beijing.

“The US has imposed more than 100 sanctions on Russia since 2011, but this is not a fundamental and effective means to solve the problem,” he said.