US Pressure on China Over Russian Oil Imports Intensifies

Several US officials have voiced concerns regarding China's purchases of oil from Russia and Iran. US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent indicated that upcoming US-China talks might address China's oil imports from these nations. Additionally, US Senator Lindsey Graham warned of potential steep tariffs on countries continuing to import Russian oil, specifically mentioning India, China, and Brazil.

Chinese experts suggest that the US criticism reflects Washington's growing frustration over its unsuccessful attempts to mediate the Russia-Ukraine conflict. They caution that if the US attempts to use trade talks and tariffs to pressure China, Beijing will not yield. Such actions could also undermine the existing trade negotiation mechanisms between the two countries.

In response to the US officials' remarks, a spokesperson from China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized China's consistent stance on tariffs. They expressed hope for cooperation with the US to implement agreements reached by the two presidents, strengthen the economic and trade consultation mechanism, and promote the healthy development of bilateral relations.

Experts believe that China will resist any attempts by the US to weaponize trade negotiations. They anticipate that Beijing will insist on keeping trade talks focused solely on trade matters. Some analysts suggest that if the US pressures China on this issue, it could jeopardize the newly established trade consultation mechanism.

Furthermore, Graham stated that Trump would impose tariffs on countries that buy Russian oil, including China, India, and Brazil. He claimed that these countries' purchases support Russia's war efforts. One commentator noted that such threats could backfire, potentially escalating a trade war and increasing domestic inflation.

Analysts believe that the US officials' remarks reflect the US's growing frustration over its inability to mediate the Russia-Ukraine conflict. With limited options to directly counter Russia, the US is now attempting to pressure other countries to weaken the Russian economy. However, experts predict that this strategy will not succeed.

China's Foreign Ministry has stated its firm opposition to any illicit unilateral sanctions and long-arm jurisdiction. China maintains that dialogue and negotiation are the only viable solutions to the crisis. They hope that all parties will create conditions for a political settlement of the Ukraine crisis.

India has also expressed concerns about potential double standards, as US lawmakers consider imposing tariffs on countries buying Russian oil. India's Ministry of External Affairs stated that securing its energy needs is a priority and that it is guided by market offerings and global circumstances.

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte has also issued a warning to China, India, and Brazil, who are major buyers of Russian oil. He suggested that these countries should pressure Russia to end the conflict or face tariffs.