China slams US double standards on Russia trade criticism

China has accused the United States of applying double standards in its criticism of China's trade relations with Russia.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian stated during a briefing that the US and its allies have maintained substantial trade with Russia, amounting to over $130 billion last year, constituting 18% of Russia's total foreign trade, Caliber.Az reports via Russian media.

Lin Jian criticized the US for proposing significant aid to Ukraine while simultaneously condemning normal economic and trade exchanges between China and Russia as unjustified double standards.

Lin Jian emphasized that most countries worldwide have not participated in imposing sanctions on Russia or ceased trade with the country, thus the US criticism of China is unwarranted.

Following the NATO summit, a joint statement characterized China's support for Russia's defence industry as a decisive factor in Russia's conflict with Ukraine, posing a threat to neighbouring states and Euro-Atlantic security.

The statement called on China, as a UN Security Council permanent member, to halt any material and political backing for Russia's military operations, particularly concerning dual-use materials essential to Russia's defence sector.

The statement concluded by warning that China's involvement in Europe's largest modern conflict could adversely affect its global standing and interests.