China Opposes U.S. Sanctions on Russian Energy Buyers

China has voiced strong opposition to potential U.S. sanctions targeting countries that purchase Russian energy. A spokesperson for China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Lin Jian, described the U.S. actions as "illegal unilateral sanctions" lacking any basis in international law or UN Security Council approval.

"China strongly opposes illegal unilateral sanctions that have no basis in international law and are not approved by the UN Security Council," Lin stated during a press conference. He added that "China will take all necessary measures to resolutely protect the legitimate rights and interests of its companies and citizens."

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China strongly opposes illegal unilateral sanctions that have no basis in international law and are not approved by the UN Security Council.

The proposed U.S. legislation could grant the president authority to impose tariffs and sanctions on nations continuing to buy Russian energy, which is a significant source of revenue for Moscow's war effort. While details of the updated bill were not fully disclosed, senators involved indicated it was recently agreed upon with Donald Trump.

An earlier version of the proposal included tariffs of up to 500% on imports from countries buying Russian oil, gas, and uranium. The agreement reportedly emerged amid signs of Trump's growing frustration with Russia's reluctance to negotiate an end to the conflict in Ukraine. However, the administration's support could remove a major political obstacle for the bill, which has been under negotiation for months and has garnered bipartisan backing, though its swift passage is not guaranteed.

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China will take all necessary measures to resolutely protect the legitimate rights and interests of its companies and citizens.