Xi warns Trump about Taiwan and raises the risk of a major conflict

Chinese President Xi Jinping warned Donald Trump that mishandling the Taiwan issue could put Sino-American relations on a dangerous path and even lead to conflict. This warning was issued during a two-day summit in Beijing between the leaders of the world's two largest economies.

According to the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the closed-door discussions between the two presidents lasted more than two hours. Xi Jinping However, he also highlighted the progress made in trade negotiations between Washington and Beijing, displaying a more conciliatory tone on economic issues.

The statements on Taiwan nevertheless marked a notable hardening of Chinese rhetoric. Beijing considers the democratically governed island an integral part of its territory and views any American involvement in this matter as a strategic red line.

According to Chinese authorities, the warning issued to Donald Trump was one of the most sensitive moments of the meeting. Despite an atmosphere described as cordial and relaxed during the official ceremonies, the issue of Taiwan reportedly weighed heavily on the private discussions between the two leaders.

The American account of the discussions, however, made no mention of the Taiwan issue. Washington's communication focused more on economic and energy issues, particularly the shared desire to reopen the maritime route through the Strait of Hormuz, which has been severely disrupted by the war in Iran.

The discussions also touched on energy, with Xi Jinping expressing interest in increasing purchases of American oil to reduce China's dependence on Middle Eastern supplies. Donald Trump, for his part, is seeking economic progress and diplomatic support amid regional tensions surrounding Iran.

This visit marks the first by an American president to China since 2017 and takes place in a particularly tense international climate, combining strategic rivalry, commercial stakes and growing geopolitical risks.