China Defies US Pressure Over Russian and Iranian Oil Imports
China rejects US demands to halt Russian and Iranian oil purchases, asserting its sovereignty and energy security. This stance complicates ongoing trade talks.
Subscribe to unlock this story
We really don't like cutting you off, but you've reached your monthly limit. At just $5/month, subscriptions are how we keep this project going. Start your free 7-day trial today!
Get StartedHave an account? Sign in
Overview
- China firmly rejects US demands to cease purchasing oil from Russia and Iran, stating that coercion and pressure will not achieve anything.
- China emphasizes its commitment to protecting national sovereignty, security, and development interests, prioritizing energy supply despite US pressure.
- China's reliance on these sources is evident, with 80-90% of Iran's oil exports reportedly going to China and Russian oil imports increasing by 20%.
- US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent acknowledges China's strong value for its sovereignty regarding these oil purchases, highlighting the core disagreement.
- Despite being close to a trade deal, US and Chinese officials remain at odds over the US demand for China to stop these specific oil imports.
Report issue
Read both sides in 5 minutes each day
Analysis
Center-leaning sources cover this story neutrally by presenting a balanced account of the US-China trade negotiations and the contentious issue of oil purchases. They include diverse perspectives from both sides and experts, focusing on the complexities and motivations without adopting a particular narrative, allowing readers to form their own conclusions.
"China will always ensure its energy supply in ways that serve our national interests."
ABC News"The response is notable at a time when both Beijing and Washington are signaling optimism and goodwill about reaching a deal to keep commercial ties between the world’s two largest economies stable."
Associated PressArticles (3)
FAQ
China insists on protecting its national sovereignty, security, and development interests, prioritizing stable energy supply over US demands and rejecting coercion as ineffective.
Russian oil imports to China have increased significantly, with China remaining the largest buyer of Russian fossil fuels, while 80-90% of Iran’s oil exports reportedly go to China, making these imports critical to China’s energy security.
China's refusal to halt oil imports from Russia and Iran remains a core disagreement in trade talks, complicating efforts to finalize a trade deal between the US and China.
China’s imports of Russian crude increased by approximately 2-5% month-on-month as of mid-2025, with Russian crude comprising a growing share of China's total oil imports.
The US argues that funds from Russian and Iranian oil exports finance terrorism and destabilizing actions globally, and thus seeks to limit China’s purchases as part of sanctions enforcement.
History
- This story does not have any previous versions.