China rejects US bill targeting Russian energy buyers

China has strongly opposed a proposed United States sanctions bill aimed at countries purchasing Russian energy, warning that it will protect the interests of its businesses and citizens if the legislation is implemented.

The proposed bipartisan bill, backed by US President Donald Trump, seeks to increase pressure on Russia over the Ukraine war. It would allow the US administration to impose sanctions and heavy tariffs on countries that continue importing Russian oil, gas and other energy products.

Responding to the proposal, China’s Foreign Ministry said unilateral sanctions without approval from the United Nations Security Council violate international law. Beijing accused Washington of applying double standards and using economic pressure to pursue its political objectives.

Chinese officials stated that the country would take all necessary steps to safeguard its legitimate trade and economic interests. They maintained that cooperation between China and Russia in the energy sector is lawful and should not be disrupted by external pressure.

China remains one of the largest buyers of Russian crude oil. Energy imports from Russia have expanded significantly since Western nations imposed sanctions on Moscow following the outbreak of the Ukraine conflict in 2022.

According to US lawmakers, the new legislation is intended to reduce Russia’s energy revenues, which are considered a major source of funding for its military operations in Ukraine. Earlier versions of the bill proposed tariffs of up to 500 percent on imports from countries that continue purchasing Russian oil, natural gas, uranium and other commodities.

The latest version of the bill has not yet been made public, but lawmakers say it has been updated after consultations with the White House. It is expected to be introduced in Congress soon, although its final approval is still uncertain.

The proposal comes as Washington signals growing frustration over the lack of progress in efforts to end the conflict in Ukraine. US officials believe stronger economic measures could increase pressure on Moscow to engage in negotiations.

China, however, insists that disputes should be resolved through dialogue and diplomacy rather than sanctions. Beijing has repeatedly opposed unilateral economic restrictions and has called for peaceful negotiations to end the war.