The EU is engaged in China-bashing at a time when its own reputation is damaged, and its room for maneuver is dwindling. Fundamentally, the question arises as to the sense and effect of politically motivated sanctions, such as those imposed against China. There are many analyses that come to the conclusion that the effects of sanctions are usually misjudged. And with regard to China, it cannot be assumed that the sanctions will trigger a process that will improve Europe's relations with China and thus open up opportunities for influence.