‘No basis in international law’: China rejects US tariff threat over Russian oil
China has rejected a new US law that authorizes tariffs on countries importing Russian oil and gas, labeling it a violation of international law. The legislation, passed by the US House, targets major importers like China and India to pressure Russia over the war in Ukraine.
Why it matters
This represents a significant escalation in trade tensions between the US and major global economies, potentially impacting global energy markets.
China on Thursday rejected US efforts to pressure countries buying Russian oil and gas, saying its normal trade with other countries should not be subject to interference or coercion by third parties.The response came after the US House of Representatives passed the Lindsey O Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026. The legislation gives US President Donald Trump the power to impose tariffs of up to 100 per cent on countries that continue to buy Russian oil and gas, including major buyers such as China and India.Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said Beijing opposes sanctions that do not have a basis in international law or authorisation from the UN Security Council."China consistently opposes long-arm jurisdiction that lacks a basis in international law and is not authorised by the United Nations Security Council," Guo said at a media briefing.He said China's trade with other countries was based on equality…
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