August 9, 2025 — China has voiced strong opposition to recent U.S. threats of imposing tariffs on nations maintaining trade with Russia, calling such measures “illegal unilateral sanctions” and warning they will not resolve the Ukraine conflict.
Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian, speaking at a regular press briefing, said China “firmly opposes all forms of illegal unilateral sanctions and long-arm jurisdiction.” He stressed that “there are no winners in a tariff war” and that “coercion and pressure will not solve problems.”
The remarks came in response to U.S. proposals that could see steep tariffs placed on Russia’s allies if the Ukraine war is not resolved within a specified timeframe. Reports indicate Washington is considering measures including a 50-day ultimatum for ending the conflict or facing punitive trade actions.
Beijing maintains that its economic relations with Moscow comply with international law and respect the principle of sovereignty. Lin reiterated that China’s stance on the Ukraine crisis remains consistent — advocating dialogue and negotiations as the “only viable solution” — and called for creating conditions conducive to political talks.
The U.S. position has also been reinforced by legislative proposals such as one put forward by Senator Lindsey Graham, which would impose tariffs of up to 500% on countries continuing trade with Russia. China has criticized such plans as counterproductive, arguing they may escalate tensions and complicate efforts for a peaceful resolution.
On August 8, Chinese President Xi Jinping held talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin, during which he reaffirmed China’s intention to continue energy and trade cooperation with Russia. Xi emphasized that these activities are “just and legitimate” and aligned with China’s national energy security needs.
China’s statements underscore its opposition to economic coercion and its commitment to pursuing what it describes as fair, lawful international trade practices. The issue comes amid broader U.S.-China frictions over global trade, sanctions policy, and the handling of the Ukraine war.
