China has warned of possible repercussions after U.S. President Donald Trump demanded that all NATO countries impose steep tariffs on Chinese goods and end purchases of Russian oil.
“If China’s interests are harmed, the People’s Republic will take countermeasures and defend its security and development interests,” Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said Monday in Beijing.
He described the U.S. stance as a “typical case of unilateral harassment.”
In another statement, China’s Ministry of Commerce urged Washington to act with restraint and settle trade and economic frictions through dialogue.
Trump recently tied additional U.S. sanctions on Russia to all NATO allies enforcing tariffs of 50 to 100 per cent on Chinese imports and stopping the purchase of Russian oil.
According to him, such steps would pressure Beijing to use its leverage on Moscow and push Russia toward negotiations.
He added that the proposed tariffs would be lifted once the conflict in Ukraine concludes.
Although China maintains it is neutral in the war, it remains a significant partner of Moscow.
Beijing has offered proposals for peace, but Kyiv rejected them, arguing they mainly reflect Russian demands.
Trump’s comments came as U.S. and Chinese officials met in Spain to discuss trade ties.
The tariff standoff between Washington and Beijing intensified earlier in the year, with both governments imposing duties exceeding 100 per cent on selected goods. The truce in the trade dispute lasts until year-end.