Tensions between the US and China have escalated further, with Beijing strongly rejecting US accusations of aiding Russia and threatening punitive tariffs. In response to the Trump administration’s announcement of up to 500% tariffs on nations buying sanctioned Russian oil, China has accused the US of double standards, pointing out that Washington continues its own trade with Moscow.
China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin (or Shuang, as per source context) addressed the issue, emphasizing that China is not a party to the Ukraine conflict. “We did not create this crisis, we are not involved in it, and we have never supplied lethal weapons to any of the parties,” the official said.
Background: What Triggered the Clash
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The US, under the Trump administration, announced steep tariffs (up to 500%) on countries that import Russian oil under sanctions.
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The move aims to tighten global pressure on Moscow amid the ongoing Ukraine war.
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China, being a major buyer of Russian crude, found itself in the spotlight.
However, China has firmly denied any wrongdoing and instead turned the spotlight back on the US. Officials alleged that American firms and institutions continue business dealings with Russia, raising questions over Washington’s unilateral sanctions and global enforcement.
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China’s Stand on the Ukraine Conflict
China reiterated that:
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It has maintained a neutral position on the Russia-Ukraine war.
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Beijing has never sent lethal aid to either side.
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The country continues to call for peaceful dialogue and diplomatic resolution.
Neutral Analysis
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The exchange marks a significant diplomatic escalation, especially in the context of global oil trade and sanctions enforcement.
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China’s defence emphasizes its non-alignment in the conflict, while challenging the consistency of US policies.
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For global markets, especially in Asia, energy trade dynamics may be affected if US tariffs are broadly applied.
As geopolitical tensions rise, investors and policy observers will closely watch for developments that may influence global oil flows, trade relations, and sanctions diplomacy in the months ahead.