China Defends Russian Oil Imports, Vows Firm Countermeasures to US Pressure

China has firmly rejected renewed US pressure to halt its imports of Russian oil. The Chinese foreign ministry stated its energy trade with Russia is entirely lawful. It warned of “firm countermeasures” if the United States imposes sanctions affecting Beijing’s interests.

The strong rebuttal came after US commentary targeted China’s role as a top buyer of Russian fossil fuels. According to Reuters, China’s position underscores the deepening geopolitical fissures over the Ukraine conflict and global energy trade.

China’s Stance on Russian Oil Imports

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian addressed the issue directly. He labeled the US approach as “unilateral bullying and economic coercion.” Lin stated this practice severely harms international trade rules.

He emphasized that China’s energy cooperation with countries worldwide is legitimate. This includes its ongoing trade with Russia. The spokesperson affirmed China’s objective stance on the Ukraine crisis.

Economic Impact and Global Supply Chains

The dispute centers on the significant revenue stream China provides Russia. Data from the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air confirms China is the largest buyer of Russian fossil fuels. US Treasury officials have cited this as a key concern.

Lin Jian argued that US actions threaten global industrial supply chain security. He warned that harming China’s legitimate rights would provoke a firm response. The goal is to safeguard national sovereignty and security interests.

The situation is complicated by parallel tensions over rare earth minerals. China recently announced further export controls on these critical materials. The US and its allies are preparing a coordinated response to this move.

The ongoing dispute over China’s Russian oil imports highlights a major fracture in global diplomacy. It signals a challenging road ahead for international energy market stability.

Thought you’d like to know

Is it legal for China to buy Russian oil?

Yes, China maintains its oil imports from Russia are entirely lawful. The government asserts its trade follows normal international rules and practices.

What did China say it would do if the US imposes sanctions?

China vowed to take firm countermeasures. It stated it would act to protect its sovereignty and security interests from any harm.

How much Russian oil does China buy?

China is the largest buyer of Russian fossil fuels. US Treasury estimates suggest China purchases a significant majority of Russian energy exports.

How does this affect global supply chains?

China argues US pressure threatens global supply chain security. It claims unilateral sanctions disrupt the stability of international trade flows.

Why is the US pressuring China over this issue?

The US believes oil revenues help finance Russia’s military actions. It seeks to limit this funding stream by reducing Russian oil sales to major economies.

Trusted Sources: Reuters, Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA), Chinese Foreign Ministry, US Treasury.