Tensions are once again rising between the United States and China. The U.S. government is trying to pressure Beijing to halt oil imports from Russia and Iran — but China is standing firm, making it clear: “We act in our national interest.”

Last week, China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs warned that it would defend its sovereignty and security, and condemned the U.S. tactics as "ineffective coercion." The response came shortly after Donald Trump issued a stern warning: stop buying oil from Russia and Iran, or face 100% tariffs.

Energy Deal with Russia Becomes a Flashpoint

Recent trade talks between U.S. and Chinese officials in Stockholm ended without a breakthrough. However, both sides agreed to extend the current 90-day pause on tariff escalations, which was set to expire on August 12.

U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent made it clear that the extension hinges on Trump’s decision. “The Chinese take their sovereignty very seriously,” he said. “We don’t want to interfere with that—so they’re welcome to pay the 100% tariff.”

Trump Applies Pressure, Beijing Stands Its Ground

Experts like Gabriel Wildau from Teneo warn that Trump’s 100% tariff threat could unravel all recent progress and jeopardize a potential meeting between Trump and Xi Jlnping this fall.

Danny Russel of the Asia Society emphasized that China simply can’t afford to walk away from Russian and Iranian energy. The strategic importance of those supplies is too great.

According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration, China imports roughly 80–90% of Iran’s oil and has purchased nearly 47% of Russian oil exports over the past 18 months.

Senator Graham Pushes for Crushing Sanctions

Meanwhile, Senator Lindsey Graham is backing legislation to allow Trump to impose up to 500% tariffs on countries buying oil, gas, and petrochemicals from Russia.

He argues that these purchases directly fund Putin’s war machine. Graham’s bill already has 84 Senate co-sponsors and 70 in the House of Representatives.

Trade Explosion on the Horizon?

The Trump administration is increasingly linking global politics to trade — and oil has become the most explosive issue. While China sticks to its interests, the U.S. is turning up the heat.

Talks between Washington and Beijing continue, but the outcome is uncertain. One wrong move could spark a full-blown trade war with global consequences.

#china , #usa , #TradeWars , #TrumpTariffs , #Geopolitics

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