NewKerala.com

China Slams US Sanctions on Russia Trade as "Ukraine Conflict Excuse" at UNSC

China has sharply criticized US sanctions targeting trade with Russia, accusing Washington of using the Ukraine conflict as an excuse for its actions. The warning comes as proposed US legislation could impose a massive 500% tariff on countries, including China, that purchase Russian oil. While not directly criticizing Russia, China's UN representative advocated for a "sustainable European security architecture" and supported ongoing peace efforts. Other nations like Hungary and Turkey also continue to buy Russian oil but have so far been spared from US punitive tariffs.

Key Points: China Criticizes US Sanctions on Russia at UN Security Council

  • China criticizes US sanctions at UNSC
  • US may impose 500% tariff on Russian oil buyers
  • China seeks distance from Moscow, supports peace
  • Other nations like Hungary, Turkey also buy Russian oil
2 min read

'Ukraine conflict is excuse': At UNSC, China criticises US sanctions over Russian trade

China opposes US sanctions on Russian trade, calling the Ukraine crisis a pretext. US legislation threatens massive tariffs on nations buying Russian oil.

"China opposes the use of the crisis by any party as a pretext to impose illegal unilateral sanctions - Sun Lei"

United Nations, Jan 13

China, at the UN Security Council, criticised US sanctions against trade with Russia, asserting that it was using the Ukraine crisis as an excuse for the action.

"China opposes the use of the crisis by any party as a pretext to impose illegal unilateral sanctions and disrupt normal trade and economic relations," Beijing's Deputy Permanent Representative Sun Lei said at a meeting on Ukraine on Monday.

So far, China has escaped the punitive tariffs for buying Russian oil, which US President Donald Trump singled out India among all those buying petroleum products from Moscow.

However, China could be snagged by a legislative move greenlighted by Trump.

Senator Lindsey Graham's proposed legislation seeks to impose a 500 per cent tariff on countries buying Russian oil, which, if passed by Congress, could apply to China.

Sun warned: "The continued spillover of the (Ukraine) crisis has severely impinged on the global economy."

"The international community should send a more objective, balanced, and rational voice to help realise the vision of peace as soon as possible," he added.

Speaking at the Council meeting on behalf of the Baltic states, Lithuania's representative took a shot at those involved economically with Moscow, only mentioning North Korea and Iran.

But he asserted that "Moscow's aggression" was financed through "shadow fleet tankers" and illegal oil trade, he said.

Besides China, other countries, including Hungary and Turkey, also buy Russian oil, but Trump has spared them punitive tariffs.

While not criticising Russia, Sun put some distance from Moscow, supporting a "sustainable European security architecture" as he backed the peace efforts that he said were gaining momentum.

A security architecture could include guarantees for Ukraine from the US and Western Europe, and European troops in Ukraine for its safety.

- IANS

Share this article:

Reader Comments

P
Priya S
As an Indian, I see this as more great power politics. The US uses sanctions as a tool, China uses rhetoric about multilateralism. Meanwhile, countries like ours are caught in the middle, trying to secure energy for our people at affordable prices. The 500% tariff idea is extreme and would hurt global recovery. 🌍
A
Aman W
China's criticism is valid to an extent. The US often acts as the world's policeman. But let's not forget, China hasn't condemned Russia either. It's all about national interest. For India, our interest is clear: diversify energy sources and avoid being overly dependent on any one bloc. Jai Hind!
S
Sarah B
Living in Delhi, I feel the pinch of global oil prices. This conflict has real consequences for the common person. While I understand the moral stance against Russia, punishing all buyers with massive tariffs feels counterproductive. It will just increase inflation worldwide. A more nuanced approach is needed.
V
Vikram M
The hypocrisy is glaring. China talks about peace but continues trade that fuels the war. The "shadow fleet" mentioned by Lithuania is a real problem. Respectfully, I think the international community needs to move beyond statements and take concrete, unified action to isolate Russia economically, without exceptions for powerful nations.
K
Kavya N
This is why we need stronger institutions in the Global South. We're always reacting to decisions made in Washington, Brussels, or now Beijing. India should lead in creating frameworks that protect developing economies from being collateral damage in these geopolitical fights. Our foreign policy has been pragmatic so far.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Leave a Comment

Minimum 50 characters 0/50