‘Bullying, economic coercion’: China slams Trump pressure on Europe for 100% tariff over Russian oil

China on Monday slammed the Trump administration’s push for G7 and Nato allies to impose tariffs on countries importing Russian crude oil, labelling the move as “unilateral bullying.”

According to a Times of India report, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian, at a scheduled press conference, defended China’s global energy partnerships, particularly with Russia, calling them lawful and beyond criticism.

Beijing also warned of possible countermeasures to Washington’s push for sanctions, highlighting growing tensions even as Chinese and US delegations held their second day of economic and trade talks in Spain on Monday.

“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,” PTI quoted Lin as saying.

“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 added.

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

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

“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,” he added.

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

US President Donald Trump had called on Nato allies to impose steep tariffs, ranging from 50% to 100%, on China and to halt purchases of Russian oil as part of efforts to help end the war in Ukraine.

Treasury Secretary Bessent also engaged with G7 finance ministers, urging them to support Trump’s proposal for coordinated tariffs on countries continuing to buy Russian crude, framing it as a strategy to bring the conflict to a close.

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

With inputs from agencies