On Friday, September 19, 2025, the Trump administration imposed new tariffs on China, specifically targeting Chinese imports linked to Russian oil. This move is part of a broader strategy to penalize China for its continued economic engagement with Russia, particularly in the energy sector.
The tariffs were announced by senior White House officials who cited concerns that China’s importation of Russian oil indirectly supports Russia’s military actions in Ukraine. The administration stated that these tariffs are intended to disrupt financial flows that could be aiding Russia’s war efforts.
According to a statement from the White House, the tariffs will add an additional 25 percent duty on certain Chinese goods connected to the Russian oil trade. This measure follows previous tariffs imposed on other countries, including India, for similar reasons related to Russian oil imports.
The Trump administration’s Deputy Chief of Staff, Stephen Miller, emphasized in a Fox News interview that the United States is committed to using economic tools to counteract any support for Russia’s military aggression. He noted that China remains one of the largest importers of Russian crude oil, which accounts for a significant portion of Russia’s export revenue.
The tariffs come amid ongoing geopolitical tensions involving Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the international community’s efforts to isolate Russia economically. The United States has been actively seeking to limit Russia’s ability to finance its military operations through energy exports.
China has not officially responded to the new tariffs as of Friday, but previous statements from Chinese officials have defended their energy trade with Russia as legitimate and necessary for their economic interests.
Experts note that these tariffs could further complicate U.S.-China trade relations, which have been strained over the past several years due to various disputes including technology, intellectual property, and regional security issues.
The Trump administration’s decision to impose these tariffs on Friday marks a significant escalation in its trade policy aimed at curbing support for Russia amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
