sanction

Denmark's representative Elsebeth Sondergaard Krone, speaking on behalf of the European Union, said the bloc "stands firm in defence of the court in the face of threats and sanctions against the court".

About a month ago the company said it had agreed to buy the international assets of Lukoil, shortly after the Russian oil producer was hit by U.S. sanctions.

Government authorities have stepped in with official relief measures and sanctioned mourning activities, such as flying flags at half-staff and the establishment of designated condolence sites.

On social media, some accused the Chinese authorities of taking away its own people's freedom to enjoy culture, in its attempts to sanction Japan.

Strict sanctions imposed by the U.S. on Russian energy companies have provided bottom-line support for oil prices, they note.