On June 5, 2025, President Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping held their first conversation since Trump took office, marking a significant moment given the ongoing trade conflicts between the United States and China. The details of the call were initially sparse, stemming from Chinese state media, but came during a period of renewed friction following a brief detente established in Geneva.
Xi and Trump Engage in Tense Talks Amid Trade War Strain
Xi and Trump Engage in Tense Talks Amid Trade War Strain
President Trump communicates with China's Xi Jinping amid escalating tensions and stalled negotiations between the world's largest economies.
As tensions re-emerged, Trump publicly expressed frustration over Xi's negotiating style, labeling him as "VERY TOUGH, AND EXTREMELY HARD TO MAKE A DEAL WITH." The Trump administration has alleged that China violated the recent truce by limiting exports of crucial rare earth minerals, essential for various American industries, including automotive and tech sectors. This action threatens to disrupt production lines, as China controls a significant portion of the global supply of these critical resources.
In retaliation, the U.S. has contemplated withdrawing visas for certain Chinese students and halted sales of crucial technology like jet engine components and semiconductors to China. Meanwhile, China has refuted claims of breaking the Geneva deal and has countered that the United States is exacerbating the situation.
No statements from the White House were available immediately following the call, as tensions continue to simmer in the wake of trade negotiations.
David Pierson specializes in Chinese foreign policy, while Ana Swanson focuses on trade and international economics. Both have extensive journalistic experience in their respective fields.
In retaliation, the U.S. has contemplated withdrawing visas for certain Chinese students and halted sales of crucial technology like jet engine components and semiconductors to China. Meanwhile, China has refuted claims of breaking the Geneva deal and has countered that the United States is exacerbating the situation.
No statements from the White House were available immediately following the call, as tensions continue to simmer in the wake of trade negotiations.
David Pierson specializes in Chinese foreign policy, while Ana Swanson focuses on trade and international economics. Both have extensive journalistic experience in their respective fields.
