The Chinese authorities have informed Ukraine that relations between the two countries may be damaged because Kyiv has added more than a dozen Chinese companies to the list of international war sponsors. Reuters reports this with reference to statements by two high-ranking Ukrainian politicians.

According to journalists, last month the Chinese ambassador met with representatives of the Ukrainian government in Kyiv. During the talks, the diplomat conveyed a warning on this issue.

"The ambassador said that the whole situation could negatively affect our relations," one of the sources said.

The official added that China did not put forward any conditions or "time frames" for Ukraine, but simply expressed its opinion on the list. The second source suggested that Beijing might link the issue to China's purchases of Ukrainian grain.