Politics · India Bureau
China slams US tariff threat over Russian energy purchases
Beijing has rejected American pressure on nations buying Russian oil and gas, arguing such measures lack legal foundation. India has signalled it will protect its energy security and trade interests against potential US legislative action.
LSN India ·
China has strongly condemned US legislative proposals to impose tariffs on major purchasers of Russian energy commodities, stating such measures have no basis in international law.
The Chinese government's rejection comes as the United States moves to expand economic pressure on nations continuing to trade in Russian oil and gas. Beijing has criticised the approach as lacking both foundation in established international legal frameworks and backing from the United Nations.
India, a significant consumer of Russian energy resources, has indicated it is monitoring the developing situation closely. New Delhi has made clear its commitment to maintaining energy security while remaining prepared to implement counter-measures to safeguard its commercial interests should US legislation proceed.
The dispute underscores growing tensions over Western sanctions against Russia and their extraterritorial application to third-party nations. India's position reflects broader concerns among major emerging economies regarding unilateral trade restrictions imposed outside multilateral frameworks.