China has issued a stark warning to the United States, vowing to retaliate against new tariffs and escalating tensions between the two economic giants. Foreign Minister Wang Yi condemned Washington’s trade policies as “arbitrary” and accused the U.S. of undermining bilateral ties. Beijing’s Foreign Ministry declared it is “ready to fight till the end” if war; economic or otherwise is what the U.S. seeks. The latest escalation raises concerns of a deepening trade conflict with global implications.
China has signaled a dramatic escalation in tensions with the United States following Washington’s latest round of tariffs. Foreign Minister Wang Yi, speaking at a press conference Friday during China’s annual parliamentary session, condemned the U.S. for what he called “arbitrary tariffs” and accused Washington of engaging in hostile actions under the guise of diplomacy.
“No country should fantasize that it can suppress China and maintain a good relationship with China at the same time,” Wang warned, emphasizing that Beijing will retaliate against the economic measures imposed by the U.S. earlier this week.
The U.S. recently levied new duties against China, Canada, and Mexico, citing fentanyl smuggling concerns. China, however, maintains that it has taken significant steps to curb the export of chemicals used in fentanyl production and argues that America’s drug crisis is a domestic issue. In response to the tariffs, Beijing imposed additional 15% duties on key American imports such as poultry, pork, soy, and beef, further intensifying the ongoing trade war.
The Chinese Foreign Ministry escalated its rhetoric on Tuesday, with its spokesperson declaring, “If war is what the U.S. wants, be it a tariff war, a trade war, or any other type of war, we’re ready to fight till the end.” The Chinese Embassy in the U.S. reiterated this stance on social media, prompting a swift response from U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, who stated on Fox News, “We’re prepared. Those who long for peace must prepare for war.”
Beyond trade disputes, Wang also addressed rising tensions over Taiwan, warning that “advocating for Taiwan independence is playing with fire.” Additionally, he criticized the Trump administration’s nationalist economic policies, cautioning that such an approach could destabilize global order.
As both nations continue to harden their stances, the prospect of a prolonged economic and possibly military confrontation looms large.
