US ready to tariff China over Russian oil buys, but Europe must follow, Bessent says

WASHINGTON: The United States is ready to impose tariffs on China over its purchases of Russian oil, but Washington's European allies must be willing to take part in such action, U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent told a news conference on Wednesday.

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China buys 60% of Russian energy, which the US says directly supports Russia's war efforts.
Chinese parts found in Russian drones used in Ukraine, according to photos from Ukrainian officials shared by the US.
US warns of consequences, suggesting China's actions risk global stability and may prompt further trade or security measures.

"It is the purchase of Russian oil by China that fuels the Russian war machines. China buys 60%, six zero percent, of Russian energy. They buy 90% of Iranian energy," he said.

The U.S. would produce photographs supplied by the Ukrainian government that showed Chinese parts were used in Russian drones operating in Ukraine, Bessent said through a spokesperson.