‘Unilateral bullying’: China slams Trump call for tariffs on countries importing Russian oil; warns of countermeasures

China has reacted strongly to the Donald Trump administration’s call to G7 and NATO to impose tariffs on countries that import Russian crude oil. The world’s second largest economy has called US statements as a sign of ‘unilateral bullying’ and has also warned of countermeasures.

This strong stance from China emerged despite ongoing economic and trade discussions between Chinese and American delegations meeting for their second day in Spain on Monday.

China slams Trump’s call for tariffs

US President Donald Trump urged NATO nations to implement substantial tariffs ranging from 50 to 100 per cent on China and cease Russian oil purchases to assist in resolving the Ukraine conflict.

Treasury Secretary Bessent spoke with G7 finance ministers, emphasising President Trump's suggestion for bloc partners to join the US in implementing tariffs on nations buying Russian oil to conclude the Ukraine war.

In response to the US urging G7 and NATO nations to levy tariffs on Chinese imports of Russian oil, Beijing firmly slammed this on Monday as "typical act of unilateral bullying" and "economic coercion", whilst warning of retaliatory actions should nations comply with Washington's request.

Also Read | India pushes back against Trump pressure: Russia crude imports rise to $3.4 bn, close to China’s $3.64 bn; EU buys fossil fuels too

During a scheduled press conference, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian defended China's energy partnerships globally, including with Russia, stating these arrangements were legitimate and beyond reproach.

Lin was responding to reports about the US seeking collective action from G7 and NATO allies to implement additional tariffs on China's Russian oil purchases, aimed at compelling Beijing to assist in resolving the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

"The US move is a typical act of unilateral bullying and economic coercion, which seriously undermines international trade rules and threatens the security and stability of global industrial and supply chains," Lin asserted.

"Facts have proven that coercion and pressure are unpopular and will not solve the problem. China's position on the Ukraine crisis is consistent and clear. Dialogue and negotiation are the only viable way out," he said according to a PTI report.

Lin emphasised China's neutral position since the Ukraine crisis began, advocating for diplomatic discussions.

Also Read | ‘Impose meaningful tariffs on China, India’ - US Treasury urges EU, G7; says purchases of Russian oil funding war machine

"We firmly oppose parties directing the issue at China and firmly oppose the imposition of unlawful, unilateral sanctions and long arm jurisdiction," he stated, indicating that China would take decisive measures to protect its sovereignty, security and development interests if its legitimate rights were compromised.

He noted, "The majority of countries, including the US and Europe, continue to engage in trade with Russia. The normal exchanges and cooperation between Chinese and Russian enterprises comply with WTO (World Trade Organisation) rules and market principles, are not targeted at any third party, and should not be subject to interference or influence from any third party."

China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi dismissed the US appeal to G7 nations on Saturday, stating that military conflicts cannot resolve issues and sanctions merely create additional complications.

The Trump administration has levied 50 per cent tariffs on India, including 25 per cent regarding Delhi's Russian oil acquisitions.