China will “resolutely counter” U.S. pressure on tariffs and the fentanyl crisis, Foreign Minister Wang Yi said on Friday, while cautioning against major powers “bullying the weak”—a veiled critique of the Trump administration’s foreign policy.
Speaking at a press conference during China’s annual parliamentary session, Wang positioned Beijing as a stable global force amid geopolitical uncertainty. His comments come as the U.S. escalates trade tensions, imposing a 10% tariff on Chinese imports in response to the continued flow of fentanyl into the country.
“If one side blindly exerts pressure, China will resolutely counter that,” Wang stated, warning that Washington cannot suppress China while expecting good relations. He also criticized the U.S. for imposing tariffs despite Beijing’s efforts to curb fentanyl precursor exports.
While Wang refrained from mentioning Trump by name, analysts suggest Beijing is keeping the door open for potential trade negotiations. “They want to keep rhetorical tensions manageable to allow room for maneuver,” said Wen-Ti Sung of the Atlantic Council.
China’s Stance on Ukraine
On the Ukraine war, Wang called for a “fair, lasting, and binding peace agreement” acceptable to all parties. He reaffirmed China’s commitment to playing a constructive role in resolving the conflict but stopped short of criticizing Russia, Beijing’s strategic partner.
China-Russia relations remain a “constant in a turbulent world,” Wang said, echoing President Xi Jinping’s recent reaffirmation of Beijing’s “no limits” partnership with Moscow.
As Trump shifts U.S. policy toward a more conciliatory stance on Russia, analysts suggest Beijing sees an opportunity to strengthen ties with European nations, which remain divided over Ukraine and trade. “China still has confidence in Europe and believes it can be a trusted partner,” Wang noted.
Beijing’s Outreach to the Global South
Wang also urged developing nations to enhance their influence in global governance, warning that prioritizing national interests over cooperation would push the world toward a “law of the jungle.” His remarks appeared to criticize Washington’s recent isolationist policies.
Within two months of taking office, Trump has withdrawn the U.S. from several multilateral agreements and cut foreign aid, fueling concerns of a strategic vacuum. “At a time when the U.S. is turning inward, China wants to present itself as a stabilizing force,” said Sung.
With tensions rising on multiple fronts, Beijing’s diplomatic strategy signals a push to strengthen ties with both the Global South and Europe while preparing for further friction with Washington.
