China Defies US Demand To Halt Russian Oil Purchases, Prioritising Energy Sovereignty.
China has firmly rejected a US ultimatum to cease importing Russian oil, asserting its right to maintain energy sovereignty. The statement came during high-level talks in Stockholm on 29 July 2025, where Chinese officials rebuffed warnings from US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent about potential tariffs of up to 500% on countries purchasing sanctioned Russian oil. Beijing’s stance underscores its commitment to securing its energy needs, regardless of external pressures, and highlights escalating tensions in global trade dynamics.
According to Reuters, Chinese representatives, led by Vice Premier He Lifeng, told Bessent that oil purchases would be dictated by domestic policy, with China importing approximately one million barrels of Russian oil daily. “China is a sovereign state with its own energy needs,” officials stated, dismissing concerns about reputational risks in Europe and scoffing at the prospect of punitive duties. This defiance comes as the US pushes to curb Russia’s energy exports amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, with a congressional bill threatening secondary sanctions on nations like China and India, which together account for significant Russian oil imports.
The Chinese Foreign Ministry reinforced this position, with spokesman Guo Jiakun declaring that Beijing would “firmly safeguard its sovereignty, security, and development interests.” This response aligns with China’s broader strategy to prioritise affordable and reliable energy sources, with Russian oil remaining a cost-effective option despite Western sanctions. The decision has sparked concerns about a potential trade war, as the US, under President Donald Trump, has tied the issue to broader negotiations, including a 90-day trade truce extension agreed upon during the Stockholm talks.
Analysts suggest China’s robust stance reflects its economic resilience and experience in circumventing sanctions. The country’s refusal to bow to US pressure also signals a shift in global power dynamics, with nations like China and India prioritising strategic interests over Western alignment. Posts on X echoed this sentiment, noting that China’s decision is driven by practical energy needs rather than political posturing. However, the US has warned that continued purchases could strain bilateral relations, with Bessent hinting that compliance could pave the way for a “big, beautiful restructuring” of US-China ties.
As global oil prices rise, with Brent at $72.59 and WTI at $67.71, the standoff could further impact energy markets. China’s unwavering commitment to Russian oil not only challenges US influence but also sets the stage for a complex geopolitical struggle, with implications for international trade and energy security in the years ahead.