China lashes out over new US sanctions on Russia
Donald Trump and Xi Jinping (photo: Getty Images)
China has sharply criticized a new US law that tightens sanctions against Russia and extends restrictions on Iran, according to Bloomberg.
A representative of the Chinese Commerce Ministry said the country has consistently opposed unilateral and so-called secondary sanctions.
The official stressed that Beijing does not support restrictions not authorized by the United Nations or grounded in international law.
"China will closely monitor Washington's next steps and reserves the right to take all necessary measures to safeguard its sovereignty, development interests and the legitimate rights and interests of its companies," the ministry spokesperson said.
The Commerce Ministry also called for stable trade relations with the United States through dialogue and consultations.
What US legislation envisages
US President Donald Trump signed a law allowing tariffs on countries that purchase Russian petroleum products. The move is being closely watched in Ukraine, which is seeking stronger support from Washington in its war against Russia.
The new US tariff restrictions could target the top five buyers of Russian fuel, including China and India, as well as US allies such as Türkiye.
Opponents of the legislation warn it could also risk tariffs for the European Union as a whole, since some EU countries still purchase Russian energy.
Context of diplomatic meetings
Criticism from China comes ahead of an important meeting between Donald Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping in Washington.
Ahead of their talks, US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng will meet in New York to discuss trade, artificial intelligence and pressure on Iran.
Ukraine's response, pressure on Russia
As reported, on September 16, the US House of Representatives approved the Lindsey Graham – Richard Blumenthal bill, which provides for tough sanctions and tariffs against Russia and countries that help it circumvent restrictions or purchase its energy resources.
Ukrainian Verkhovna Rada Chairman Ruslan Stefanchuk welcomed the legislation's passage, emphasizing that pressure on Russia shifts from words to action.
In addition, the legislation gives the US president powers to impose secondary tariffs on the largest buyers of Russian oil.
