US Won’t Tariff China Over Russian Oil Unless Europe Leads
U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said the U.S. will not impose additional tariffs on Chinese goods over China’s purchases of Russian oil — unless European countries first impose steep duties themselves.
Europe’s Expected Role
Bessent emphasized that Europe must “do their share” to reduce Russia’s oil revenue. He suggested that strong “secondary tariffs” by European nations could significantly cut off Moscow’s main financial lifeline.
India Mentioned Too
The U.S. has already imposed additional tariffs on Indian imports connected to Russian oil purchases. Bessent said he’s urged European governments to apply similar high tariffs (between 50% to 100%) on China and India to pressure them to reduce Russia-linked oil trade.
China’s Response & Sovereignty Claim
China has asserted that its oil purchases are a sovereign matter. It has expressed opposition to being pressured by the U.S. through potential tariffs and related measures.
