Iran is closely coordinating with China and Russia through recent trilateral consultations to counter Europe's attempts to invoke the United Nations ' "snapback" sanctions, a spokesperson has said.

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 U.S. demand that China stop purchasing oil from Iran and Russia.

Beijing insists it will continue to secure its energy supplies based on national interests despite pressure from Washington and the threat of punitive tariffs.

Energy prices around the world have been unstable for years. Countries are trying to lock in supplies to avoid shortages. For China, keeping the lights on and the economy moving is a top priority. That is why Beijing is pushing back against pressure from the United States to stop buying oil from Russia and Iran,

Tensions rise over energy in high-stakes US-China trade talks Trade talks between the United States and China have hit a serious roadblock. The main point of tension is China’s decision to keep buying oil from Iran and Russia.