Beijing has criticized the use of “economic pressure” after United States President Donald Trump suggested he would hike tariffs on buyers of Russian oil to stifle Moscow’s funding for its war in Ukraine.

Trump proposed broadening tariffs on Russian oil buyers, including China and India, if the European Union takes similar moves.

According to a US official, Trump raised the possibility of tariffs between 50% and 100%.

In response, China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesman Lin Jian stated, “We firmly oppose the practice of constantly dragging China into the issue, and we firmly oppose the imposition of so-called economic pressure on China.” Lin added, “China is neither the creator of this crisis nor a party to it.”

China and Russia are key trading partners, and China has maintained a neutral stance on the conflict, calling for an end to fighting while accusing Western countries of prolonging the conflict by arming Ukraine.

Recently, Russian President Vladimir Putin told Chinese counterpart Xi Jinping that their countries’ ties were at an “unprecedented level” ahead of China’s massive military parade.

China’s stance on the Ukraine crisis emphasizes respecting the sovereignty of all countries and promoting peace talks.

Beijing has been engaging in shuttle diplomacy, with its Special Representative on Eurasian Affairs Li Hui visiting various countries to promote a peaceful resolution.

China’s position paper on the Ukraine crisis, published in February 2023, outlines principles for a political settlement, including respect for sovereignty and the need for dialogue between Russia and Ukraine.