Beijing (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – On Thursday, China stated that its Russian oil imports are “legitimate” and condemned the “unilateral bullying” by the United States, which is urging nations to cease purchasing fuel from Moscow due to its invasion of Ukraine.
US President Donald Trump stated on Wednesday that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi assured him that New Delhi would cease purchasing Russian oil. He also mentioned his efforts to persuade China to do the same. India neither confirmed nor denied whether it was changing its policy.
Trump has alleged that China and India are financing the Ukraine conflict via their purchases, and he has also called for European allies to cease buying Russian oil immediately.
How does Beijing view Washington’s pressure as economic coercion?
When asked on Thursday about Trump’s plans to escalate pressure on China, Beijing’s Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian reaffirmed its stance,
“normal, legitimate economic, trade, and energy cooperation with countries around the world, including Russia”.
“The actions of the United States are a typical example of unilateral bullying and economic coercion,”
ministry spokesman Lin Jian expressed at a press briefing.
“We firmly oppose the US making China an issue, and oppose abusing unilateral, illicit sanctions, long-arm jurisdiction against China,”
spokesman Lin said.
What countermeasures might China take against US sanctions?
“If China’s legitimate rights and interests are harmed, China will take firm countermeasures to safeguard its sovereignty, security and development interests,”
he also said.
Calling for US demand to stop Russian oil imports, Lin described it as
“unilateral bullying and economic coercion,”
adding that such measures
“threaten the security and stability of the global supply chain.”
China has consistently stated it is not involved in the Ukraine conflict, but Kyiv and Western nations have frequently accused Beijing of offering political and economic backing to Moscow.
How much russian oil does China still import in 2025?
In 2025, China continues to be the largest outside importer of Russian oil and fossil fuels. In August 2025, China’s crude oil imports from Russia were approximately 15.2% lower than the previous year, at 7.94 million tonnes; however, overall crude oil imports held steady as imports from other countries increased. In September 2025, China received an estimated 40-42% of Russia’s fossil fuel export revenues, still by far the largest importer of Russian oil and coal.
