Following trade talks in Stockholm, China’s Foreign Ministry responded to U.S. threats of imposing 100% tariffs by stating that Beijing will secure its energy needs based on national interests. “Pressure and coercion will get nowhere.

US and Chinese officials may be able to settle many of their differences to reach a trade deal and avert punishing tariffs, but they remain far apart on one issue: the US demand that China stop purchasing oil from Iran and Russia.