China rejects U.S. pressure following the sanctions law on Russia

China rejected any “interference or coercion” in its trade relations with other states after the United States Congress approved a bill that could allow tariffs of up to 100% to be imposed on countries purchasing Russian energy products.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun said that Beijing maintains normal economic and trade relations with all states, based on equality and mutual benefit. The official emphasized that this cooperation is not directed against any third country and should not be affected by pressure from other governments.

China reiterated that it opposes unilateral sanctions that have no basis in international law and are not authorized by the UN Security Council.

The House of Representatives passed the Lindsey O. Graham Act after the bill had previously been approved by the Senate. The legislation still requires President Donald Trump’s signature to enter into force.

The law does not automatically impose additional tariffs, but authorizes the US administration to apply secondary sanctions against states that purchase Russian oil and gas. The measure could particularly affect China and India. The package also includes sanctions against certain Russian officials, banks, and strategic sectors, as well as against the “shadow fleet” used to export Russian oil. Additional financial measures against Iran are also предусмотрed.