China has accused the United States of violating international law in connection with the imposition of sanctions on officials and companies involved in construction in the disputed South China Sea, AP reported.

“The relevant U.S. acts grossly interfere in China’s internal affairs, violate international law and relevant international norms, which are totally out of hegemonic logic and power politics,” foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian said.

“China will take firm measures to resolutely safeguard the legitimate rights and interests of its enterprises and individuals,” Zhao noted.

The US has imposed sanctions on a number of Chinese officials and 24 companies for their role in creating artificial islands in the South China Sea.