China has fired back at Washington after the Trump administration warned of slapping up to 500% tariffs on countries that continue buying sanctioned Russian oil.
At a United Nations Security Council meeting, Chinese deputy permanent representative Geng Shuang pushed back against US accusations surrounding arms support to Russia in the Ukraine war.
“This isn’t the first time we’re hearing this, and it probably won’t be the last,” Shuang said, firmly refuting claims that China has provided weapons or violated sanctions. “But since the US keeps repeating the same rhetoric, we might as well clear the air once again.”
He clarified that China is not involved in the Ukraine conflict as a participant or supplier of lethal weapons. “We’ve always controlled dual-use exports like drones strictly. And let’s not forget, the UN hasn’t imposed any sanctions on the parties involved in this conflict.”
The Chinese diplomat said Beijing maintains normal trade ties with both Russia and Ukraine, fully in line with international law. “Our rights and interests are legitimate and lawful,” he stated, adding that any interference in those would be unacceptable.
Shuang also pointed a finger back at Washington. “The US continues to do business with Russia even now. Why is that considered fine, but when others do it, it’s a problem?”
On the broader Ukraine crisis, Shuang said this moment offers a real opportunity to explore political solutions. “You can’t ask us to help find peace while simultaneously smearing and pressuring us,” he said, nudging Washington to stop the blame game.
China has called on the US to contribute more meaningfully to de-escalation efforts rather than pointing fingers. “Play a role that actually helps with dialogue and negotiation,” Shuang urged.
All this unfolds just as the clock ticks down to August 12, the deadline for China and the US to finalise a broader tariff agreement. The two countries had made headway in May and June, reaching preliminary deals to reduce retaliatory tariffs and resolve disputes around critical exports like rare earth minerals.
But with the Trump camp now signalling harsh penalties for trade with Russia, especially on oil, those talks risk going off track again. There’s no official confirmation on whether these comments will directly impact the tariff discussions, but the timing adds another layer of uncertainty.
As it stands, both sides seem to be eyeing each other warily negotiating on one table while sparring at another.
