On Friday, September 19, US President Donald Trump spoke by phone with Chinese President Xi Jinping in what marked their first direct conversation in three months. The call touched on some of the most pressing global issues, from the ongoing war in Ukraine to trade relations, the TikTok dispute, and the fentanyl crisis.
This high-profile dialogue between Washington and Beijing suggests a possible shift in tone after months of tension, particularly over trade disputes and technology concerns. Here’s a breakdown of the key takeaways from Trump’s remarks following the call.
Trump Pushes for a Settlement in the Russia-Ukraine War
President Trump told reporters at the Oval Office that his administration remains committed to ending Russia’s war in Ukraine. He expressed optimism that progress can be made soon.
“We’re working very hard to get Russia-Ukraine settled. We’ll see what’s going to happen there,” Trump said.
According to Trump, his discussion with Xi Jinping included Ukraine, and he believes Beijing may play a constructive role in pushing for peace.
“President Xi and I spoke about it, and I believe that he really would like to see it done also. I think he’s going to work with us to help,” he added.
If China does decide to engage more actively in peace negotiations, it could mark a significant development, as Beijing has so far positioned itself as a neutral party while maintaining ties with Russia.
Comments on Putin, Zelensky, and Biden
Trump repeated his view that Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky “hate each other,” which he believes complicates negotiations. He also highlighted his own record, boasting that he had prevented “seven wars” during his time in office.
As expected, he criticized former President Joe Biden, claiming that the war in Ukraine would never have started if he had been in the White House earlier.
“This is a war that should never have started. This is a war that would never have happened if I were President,” Trump declared.
Escalations in Eastern Europe
The President also addressed recent incidents involving Russian aircraft near NATO borders. Just hours before his comments, three Russian jets reportedly violated Estonia’s airspace. Last week, Western warplanes had been dispatched to defend Poland after Russia sent 23 drones across its borders.
Trump said he “does not like” these provocations and expects a full intelligence report on the Baltic incident.
Supplying Weapons to Ukraine
On military aid, Trump noted that the United States continues to supply weapons and equipment to Ukraine, but he emphasized that he does not intend to profit from the conflict.
“I don’t want to make money on the war,” he said, though he acknowledged that Ukraine is buying American equipment as part of the ongoing defense effort.
TikTok Deal in Progress
Beyond Ukraine, Trump revealed that he and Xi Jinping also discussed the fate of TikTok, the Chinese-owned short-form video platform.
Earlier this week, Trump confirmed that Washington and Beijing had reached a preliminary agreement under which TikTok would be transferred to US control. The app has been under a legal ban since January due to data security concerns, though the ban has yet to be enforced.
TikTok was initially suspended on January 18, Biden’s last day in office, but the following day Trump then President-elect signaled an extension, allowing the app to continue operating in the US.
According to Trump, the negotiations with Xi showed “progress” toward finalizing a long-term solution, and further talks are expected when the two leaders meet in person.
Trade and the Fentanyl Crisis
Trump also suggested that Friday’s call touched on wider trade issues and China’s role in stemming the flow of fentanyl into the US. While he did not provide specifics, he indicated there had been “positive movement” on both fronts.
The fentanyl crisis remains one of America’s most pressing domestic challenges, with synthetic opioids contributing to record-high overdose deaths in recent years. Cooperation from China, a major supplier of the precursor chemicals used in fentanyl production, would be critical in curbing the epidemic.
Upcoming Meetings Between Trump and Xi
The call reportedly lasted around two hours, and both leaders agreed to meet face-to-face in six weeks’ time at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum in Gyeongju, South Korea, which begins on October 31.
Trump also announced that he plans to visit China early next year, with Xi Jinping expected to make a reciprocal trip to the United States afterward.
What This Means for Global Politics
Trump’s latest outreach to Xi Jinping could have wide-ranging implications:
For the Russia-Ukraine war: If China joins peace efforts, it could apply pressure on Moscow to consider negotiations.
For technology and TikTok: A final agreement may ease one of the most controversial tech disputes between Washington and Beijing.
For trade: Positive signals could reduce tensions in a relationship that has been strained by tariffs and sanctions.
For fentanyl control: Joint efforts may help address a deadly opioid crisis in the US.
While much remains uncertain, the tone of Trump’s remarks indicates a willingness to cooperate with China on multiple issues, suggesting a possible thaw in relations after months of friction.
Final Thoughts
Trump’s conversation with Xi Jinping marks a pivotal moment not just in US-China relations but also in the global landscape. From the war in Ukraine to trade, technology, and drug policy, the outcomes of this dialogue could shape international dynamics for months to come.
The world will now be watching closely as Trump and Xi prepare for their upcoming meeting in South Korea. Whether these talks lead to real breakthroughs or remain political posturing remains to be seen but one thing is clear: both leaders are signaling they are ready to keep the conversation going.
Comments
Post a Comment