On Monday, the Chinese Ministry of Commerce rebuked U.S. President Donald Trump’s call for NATO countries to impose steep tariffs on Chinese goods, a move he said would pressure China over its oil purchases from Russia.
In a worded statement, China called the proposal a “classic example of unilateral bullying and economic coercion,” warning that such actions could significantly disrupt global trade and supply chain stability.
“China firmly opposes the weaponisation of economic tools and urges the United States to resolve its differences through dialogue rather than pressure,” the ministry said. “If such tariffs are implemented, China will take all necessary measures to defend its legitimate rights and interests.”
Trump’s remarks, reportedly made during a campaign appearance over the weekend, mark a continuation of his combative trade stance toward Beijing. While NATO is primarily a military alliance, Trump suggested its members could use trade measures collectively to exert pressure on geopolitical issues like the Ukraine conflict.

Administrator and Writer