Sou Hu Cai Jing·2025-10-24 07:10Core Points - The EU, under the rotating presidency of Denmark, announced the 19th round of sanctions against Russia, unexpectedly including four Chinese oil companies in the sanctions list, raising concerns about the EU's approach to China [1][9] - The rapid shift from cooperative dialogue to sanctions within 24 hours has shocked observers, highlighting the EU's unpredictable stance [1][9] Group 1: EU-China Economic Relations - The recent video call between Chinese Commerce Minister Wang Wentao and EU Trade Commissioner Valdis Dombrovskis was characterized by a harmonious atmosphere, discussing sensitive topics such as rare earth export controls, electric vehicle trade disputes, and the ASML semiconductor controversy [3][5][7] - The EU expressed a strong desire for cooperation, with Dombrovskis inviting Chinese officials to Brussels for further discussions, indicating a willingness to find constructive solutions [3][7] Group 2: Sanctions and Implications - The new sanctions include a ban on Russian liquefied natural gas imports and the addition of 117 Russian "shadow fleet" vessels to a blacklist, marking a significant escalation in the EU's sanctions strategy [9][11] - This round of sanctions is notable for being the first time the EU has included Chinese companies in sanctions related to Russia, with accusations that these companies are involved in oil trade processing that helps Russia evade existing restrictions [9][11] Group 3: Geopolitical Dynamics - The EU's dual approach of seeking economic cooperation while simultaneously applying pressure through sanctions reflects its struggle to balance pragmatic economic interests with geopolitical strategies [13][14] - China's immediate response to the sanctions included a formal protest against unilateral measures, emphasizing that normal trade relations with Russia should not be disrupted [14][16] - The potential tightening of China's rare earth supply could significantly impact European manufacturing, particularly in the electric vehicle and wind power sectors, complicating the EU's supply chain dynamics [16]