China responds to Trump’s tariff warning, ‘We don’t engage in wars’

Beijing has sharply criticised US President Donald Trump’s proposal to impose tariffs of up to 100% on Chinese goods over its relationship with Russia, as per reports.

Speaking at a press briefing in Ljubljana, Slovenia, on Saturday, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi reportedly stressed that Beijing advocates dialogue rather than conflict. “China neither takes part in wars nor fuels them. What we do is encourage peace negotiations and support political solutions to international flashpoints,” he said, according to Chinese state media.

Wang, who met Slovenia’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Tanja Fajon, underlined that China has a consistent record of promoting stability. He emphasised the importance of multilateralism and the UN Charter in addressing global crises, adding that the world needs cooperation rather than escalating sanctions.

He further noted that current global affairs are marked by turmoil and uncertainty, making cooperation between China and Europe essential. “Our two sides should see each other as partners, not competitors, and work together instead of confronting each other. This is the responsible choice history demands of us,” Wang remarked.

His comments followed Trump’s statement on Truth Social calling for 50-100% tariffs on Chinese trade until the Ukraine conflict ends. Trump argued that NATO’s commitment to the war effort has been insufficient and criticised members still purchasing Russian oil despite sanctions.