Russia sanctions bill signed by Trump draws China warning

US President Donald Trump has signed legislation authorizing new sanctions aimed at pressuring Russia over its war in Ukraine, drawing a warning from China over possible measures affecting major buyers of Russian energy.

The bill targets Russia's energy and defence sectors, Russian President Vladimir Putin and other senior officials, and Moscow's so-called shadow fleet of tankers used to evade Western sanctions. It also allows Trump to impose tariffs of up to 100 percent on major buyers of Russian oil and gas, a power that could potentially cover China and India.

The Republican-led House of Representatives passed the package by 262 votes to 159 on Wednesday before Trump signed it on Friday. The measure also targets companies and foreign actors supporting Russia's military and extends sanctions involving Iran.

China's Ministry of Commerce said Saturday that it reserved the right “to take all necessary measures” to safeguard China's national sovereignty, development interests and the rights and interests of Chinese companies.

India said Thursday it would continue buying oil through diversified sourcing. New Delhi counts Russia as a major strategic partner and has faced Western pressure over its energy ties with Moscow.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky earlier welcomed the legislation as “symbolic” and thanked US lawmakers. He said sanctions had to be strong enough to support peace efforts involving Ukraine, the United States, Europe and other partners.

The tariff powers caused an unusual split among Democrats, who largely support Ukraine but have resisted giving Trump wider authority over trade. Trump's signing also comes a week before he is due to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping in Washington.