China and Russia declared a "no limits" partnership in February 2022 when Putin visited Beijing, days before he sent tens of thousands of troops into Ukraine. Putin has sometimes described China as an "ally".

The legislation, which would allow the president to levy a 500% tariff on imports from countries that purchase Russian uranium, gas and oil, has gained momentum in the Senate as Trump has signaled he will escalate US action against Russia.

Hours ahead of the promised ‘major statement’, the world is wondering whether US President Donald Trump has finally endorsed the bipartisan proposal of tough sanctions on Russia and sky-high tariffs on Russia’s trading partners.