On the eve of his talks with Vladimir Putin, Donald Trump, in an exclusive interview with Fox News, revealed details of his dialogue with Chinese leader Xi Jinping regarding Taiwan. According to the former U.S. president, Beijing made it clear that it does not plan to pursue a military solution to the Taiwan issue in the coming years, as long as Trump remains in power.
“He said: ‘We will wait'”
“Xi Jinping assured me that China would not push events forward on Taiwan during my presidency,” Trump stated. “But he added that the PRC has a ‘long-term planning horizon.’”
This statement came against the backdrop of escalating U.S.-China relations, including trade wars and disputes over Taiwan’s status. However, judging by Trump’s words, Beijing prefers to avoid open confrontation with Washington, relying instead on a long-term strategy.
Why is China Making Concessions?
Analysts note that such assurances from Xi Jinping may be a tactical move:
- Economic Stability: China is interested in maintaining trade relations with the U.S., especially after Trump’s threats to impose 60% tariffs on Chinese goods.
- Global Image: Beijing seeks to avoid being perceived as an “aggressor” by the international community.
- Domestic Calculation: China may be waiting for a change in the U.S. administration to act under more favorable conditions.
Taiwan’s Reaction
Official Taipei has not yet commented on Trump’s words, but in the past, the island’s authorities have repeatedly declared their readiness to defend their sovereignty. The question is how such informal agreements between Washington and Beijing will affect Taiwan’s security in the long term.
Xi Jinping and Trump Reach a Tacit Agreement on Taiwan: China Shows Strategic Patience
On the eve of talks with Vladimir Putin, Donald Trump told Fox News that Xi Jinping had assured him China would not pursue a military solution on Taiwan during Trump’s presidency, while emphasizing Beijing’s long-term planning horizon and “patience.” The piece below includes a responsive chart for context.
- Economic and reputational incentives support a phase of “strategic patience.”
- Activity around Taiwan remains elevated even without a near-term invasion timeline.
