Senator Graham Urges Trump to Threaten China with Tariffs Over Russia and Iran Ties

Senator Lindsey Graham of South Carolina has urged Donald Trump to threaten China with tariffs if it does not distance itself from Russia and Iran. Speaking on Fox News’ Hannity on May 13, 2026, Graham presented his demands ahead of Trump’s two-day summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping.

Graham emphasized that China should cut ties with what he described as the “worst people in the world”—Russia and Iran—and align with U.S. efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, counter Iran’s nuclear ambitions, and end the war in Ukraine. He stated:

“If you help us, I will be very grateful. If you don’t help us, and you continue to prop up these regimes, I will do business with you on Monday, and put tariffs on you on Tuesday.”

Graham also threatened legislation to allow Trump to impose tariffs on China for purchasing Russian oil. He noted that China is the largest importer of Russian coal, crude oil, and Iranian oil.

“The only thing China respects is strength,” Graham said. “So, when this [summit] is over, if they’re still doing the same damn thing with Iran and Russia and we don’t punish China, we’ve made a mistake.”

Critics argue that additional tariffs would exacerbate economic strain on Americans, who are already facing high inflation due to Trump’s military actions against Iran. They also warn that tariffs could destabilize the U.S. stock market, a key metric for Trump.

Graham has a history of inserting himself into foreign negotiations. Earlier in May 2026, he reportedly attempted to undermine Pakistan, a key mediator in U.S.-Iran talks, during discussions with Pentagon officials.