A sweeping deal is on the table, but skepticism and tariffs may keep it out of reach.
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| Trump Eyes Grand Bargain with China Nukes Tough Talk |
Michael Pillsbury, a China expert who previously advised Trump, mentioned that the President expressed his desire for a mutually beneficial deal with Xi several months ago. However, challenges persist, especially since the administration hasn't clearly outlined its expectations from Beijing.
China is both a major trading partner and a significant national security concern for the U.S., playing a crucial role in issues like nuclear security, technology, and pandemic preparedness. The Pentagon recently labeled China as the primary defense priority, citing its capability and intent to challenge U.S. interests in the Indo-Pacific region.
Last week, Trump proposed discussions with China and Russia to reduce nuclear arsenals and halve defense budgets, expressing hope to meet with Xi and Russian President Vladimir Putin once global tensions ease. Some Chinese analysts remain skeptical about the likelihood of such a deal, noting officials' cautious stance toward Trump and anticipating continued tensions. Nonetheless, reports suggest they're developing a proposal to re-engage the U.S. President.
During Trump's first term, U.S.-China relations deteriorated into a trade war, with both nations imposing tariffs on each other's goods. A Phase One trade deal was reached in early 2020, but many commitments were unmet, partly due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Recently, Trump imposed additional tariffs on key trade partners, including a 10% duty on Chinese imports, leading to Chinese retaliation and calls for renewed negotiations.
Both China and Russia have shown willingness to collaborate with the U.S. on nuclear disarmament. Beijing has reaffirmed its "no first use" policy in response to Trump's proposal for future nuclear talks. Russia's deputy UN ambassador, Dmitry Polyansky, indicated that substantive disarmament discussions could resume if Washington adjusts its position, especially with the last binding bilateral nuclear arms treaty between the U.S. and Russia set to expire next year.