BEIJING/TOKYO -- Russia's energy trade remains a glaring hole in the tightening sanctions net around the country, as increased purchases not only by China but also pro-sanctions countries like South Korea bring in foreign currency that funds Moscow's war efforts.
China's total imports from Russia jumped 26% on the year in dollar terms in March, government trade data released Tuesday shows. The increase came even as the country's overall imports dipped 0.1%, as a resurgence of coronavirus cases spurred citywide lockdowns that have hampered economic activity.
