Trump Administration Softens China Stance Amid Trade, Taiwan Tensions

President Donald Trump is reportedly softening his stance on China, potentially making significant concessions on Taiwan and technology issues to facilitate talks with Chinese leader Xi Jinping. This shift includes postponing planned high-level meetings with Taiwan's defense officials and advising Taiwan's president against transiting through the U.S., while pausing new export controls on China. Critics warn that these conciliatory moves could weaken U.S. competitiveness and regional stability, as China maintains a strong grip on critical industries like rare earth minerals and exerts pressure in trade negotiations. Trump's administration has also used trade threats effectively to mediate regional conflicts, as seen with Thailand and Cambodia's recent ceasefire. Despite the diplomatic recalibrations, Trump publicly stated he is not actively seeking a summit with Xi, though he might attend if invited. Overall, these developments signal a notable departure from previous hardline policies and suggest a strategic recalibration in U.S.-China relations.