The US has signalled that tougher sanctions on Russia will depend on Europe cutting its reliance on Russian energy and shifting toward American exports. The US is pressing Europe to reduce Russian oil imports in favour of American supplies, a shift that could redirect trade flows and increase transatlantic shipments.

China pushes back against tariffs
Beijing has rejected US threats of steep tariffs if it continues purchasing Russian oil, calling the move economic coercion. While the EU remains hesitant to apply tariffs, the standoff highlights how energy trade is increasingly shaped by great-power rivalry, adding uncertainty to future flows and global market stability.