Qin Gang, spokesman of China’s foreign ministry expressed the stance of Beijing toward the Western sanctions against Russia. The high-ranking official stated that further toughening of economic and diplomatic restrictions aimed against Russia might take a turn for the worse. The ministry spokesman highlighted, “We believe that sanctions are not conducive to an issue’s resolution, and may worsen tensions. Sanctions are not in any party’s interests.” At a briefing, the diplomat noted China’s faithfulness in such matters. “On the issue of international relations, China has consistently opposed threatening or imposing any sanctions,” he added. Thus, adhering to its principles Beijing asserted officially its position against Russia’s economic blockade. While the global community is phrasing their statements in response to the Western sanctions, U.S. President Barack Obama is inventing a new package of sanctions. Speaking at a press conference during his tour in Asia, Obama announced that “a new list of Russian officials and companies has been compiled” and “it will be made public soon.” Interestingly, the American leader mentioned in his fiery speech that the new sanctions would not concern Vladimir Putin personally. However, the economic punishment will be aimed at the defense and banking sectors of the Russian economy. Unlike China, the EU both supports the U.S. and plays a decisive role in drafting the sanctions. Pia Hansen, the European Commission spokesperson, said that the new package of tougher sanctions concern certain sectors of Russia’s economy. Besides, the new sanctions include freezing assets and visa bans for more Russian officials.