China slams US proposal to sanction Russian oil buyers: 'Lifting a rock only to drop it on own feet'

China has voiced strong opposition to a U.S. Senate proposal that would sanction buyers of Russian oil, including major purchasers like China and India. The bill, supported by President Trump, aims to impose tariffs of up to 100% on these energy buyers.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian stated that China firmly rejects illegal unilateral sanctions that lack a basis in international law or UN Security Council authorization. He asserted that such actions, which involve double standards and coercion, would ultimately "lift a rock only to drop it on one's own feet." China has pledged to take necessary measures to protect the legitimate rights of its companies and citizens.

The proposed legislation, spearheaded by the late Senator Lindsey Graham, is part of broader efforts to penalize Russia. Beyond targeting energy buyers, the bill also addresses Russia's "shadow fleet" used to circumvent sanctions and China's support for Russia's defense industry. The potential tariffs could significantly disrupt already strained trade relations between the U.S. and China, as well as with India.