During the summit in Beijing, Xi Jinping reportedly conveyed a strong message to Trump about Taiwan, warning that mishandling the issue could lead to direct confrontation or conflict between the two nations, according to Chinese state media. On the flight back to Washington, Trump reiterated that he and Xi had spoken extensively about the island but declined to discuss whether the U.S. would defend it. He said, ‘I want them to cool down. I want China to cool down.’

Trump’s diplomatic caution and Xi’s strategic warning

Xi ‘feels very strongly’ about Taiwan and ‘doesn’t want to see a movement for independence,’ Trump said, according to the BBC. The U.S. president also acknowledged Xi’s concerns, adding that the Taiwanese leader, President Lai Ching-te, is someone he plans to speak with soon. However, the U.S. does not have formal relations with Taiwan, and direct communication from a president to the island’s leader is rare, as it could provoke tensions with Beijing. Trump noted, ‘I’m going to say I have to speak to the person that right now is, you know, you know who he is, that’s running Taiwan.’

Escalating military activity and diplomatic uncertainty

According to the BBC, China has increased military exercises around Taiwan in recent years, raising regional tensions and testing the unofficial balance between the U.S. and China. Trump also said he would soon decide whether a proposed arms sale to Taiwan could proceed, adding that he and Xi had discussed the matter ‘in great detail.’ Meanwhile, Chinese state media reported that Xi described the Taiwan issue as ‘the most important issue in China-US relations,’ warning that if mishandled, it could lead to collision or conflict. The Korean source, Nate, echoed this sentiment, stating that the Taiwan Strait remains the most dangerous fault line in U.S.-China relations.

Trump’s stance on war and U.S. policy

When asked if he foresaw a conflict with China over Taiwan, Trump responded, ‘No, I don’t think so. I think we’ll be fine. [Xi] doesn’t want to see a war.’ He also told Fox News, ‘We’re not looking to have wars, and if you kept it the way it is, I think China’s going to be OK with that.’ This diplomatic caution aligns with Trump’s broader approach of reducing tensions while maintaining unofficial support for Taiwan. However, the U.S. does not traditionally engage in direct political discussions with Taiwan’s leader, a stance that could become more contentious if Trump chooses to speak with Lai Ching-te directly.