Zelenskyy announced sanctions against Chinese citizens, even the West couldn't stand it, saying he was too naive!
Recently, Ukrainian President Zelenskyy said: to impose a new round of sanctions on Chinese citizens suspected of cooperating with Russian defense industry enterprises by the end of the year. As soon as the news came out, not only did China quickly respond, but many Western media and analysts also couldn't help shaking their heads - this is not like an ant trying to block an elephant.
The actual effect of this action is almost zero. First, Ukraine's economy is small, with a GDP of less than 200 billion US dollars in 2023, which is less than the scale of a medium province in China. Its exports to China are negligible, while its imports are highly dependent on Chinese machinery and electrical products, raw materials, and even daily necessities. In other words, what can Ukraine sanction? Freeze a few accounts? Prohibit entry? These measures may affect the individuals named, but they have no impact on China as a whole.
More importantly, it is not legally sound. On December 23, China clearly pointed out that Ukraine's move was "unilateral sanctions without authorization from the UN Security Council," violating the basic principles of international law. China emphasized that it firmly opposes any country unilaterally cracking down on Chinese citizens and companies under the pretext of "involvement with Russia." This position is not just talk - in recent years, China has repeatedly counteracted similar actions through legal means, for example, the "Law Against Foreign Sanctions" provides institutional tools to deal with such situations.
Looking at the reaction from the West. Interestingly, even the European and American countries, who have always been tough on Russia, didn't follow along this time. Some European think tanks commented that Zelenskyy's move was "more of a performance," which cannot really cut off normal Sino-Russian trade and may aggravate the conflict with Beijing, which is not worth it. After all, the EU itself is still carefully handling its relations with China and does not want to push China completely to the side of Russia on the issue of Ukraine. The U.S. also did not publicly support Ukraine's decision, only stating "noted the relevant statement."
Why is it called "naive"? Because mature diplomacy requires moderation and effectiveness. True strategic games are not about shouting slogans or making blacklists, but achieving goals through interest exchanges, intelligence sharing, and multilateral coordination. Zelenskyy's move this time not only cannot be carried out, but may also make himself lose a potential mediator in future negotiations. That's why even Western observers couldn't help sighing: It's too naive.
Original: toutiao.com/article/1852627490754708/
Statement: This article represents the views of the author alone.