Trump Seeks too Leverage Xi Jinping in Ukraine Conflict Amidst Trade Talks
GYEONGJU, SOUTH KOREA – former U.S. President Donald Trump is reportedly aiming to secure increased pressure from Chinese President Xi Jinping on Russia to de-escalate the war in Ukraine during their recent meeting in Gyeongju. The discussions, framed around easing trade tensions, also highlight the complex interplay of economic vulnerabilities and geopolitical maneuvering between Washington and Beijing.
The meeting arrives at a critical juncture, as both nations navigate a landscape of escalating global risks and mutual economic dependence. While a potential agreement on tariffs and export controls is anticipated, experts caution that fundamental conflicts underpinning the U.S.-China relationship remain unresolved. The stakes are high,impacting global supply chains,technological competition,and the future of international security,notably concerning the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and Western reliance on Chinese exports of rare earth minerals.
According to Tim Rühlig, a China expert at the European Union Institute for Security Studies (EUISS), both the U.S. and China possess a clear understanding of each other’s weaknesses and potential points of leverage. “The USA and China know very well where they are vulnerable and how they can harm each other,” Rühlig stated. He further explained that periods of de-escalation typically follow threats, triggered by unsustainable costs and production disruptions.Though, Rühlig believes any agreement reached will likely be temporary, as Washington and Beijing continue to vie for global power and influence.
Eberhard Sandschneider, a prominent German China expert, echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the primary goal of both leaders is to prevent further escalation of the trade war. While some concessions on tariffs and export restrictions are expected, “the fundamental conflict between the USA and China continues,” he noted.
A significant concern highlighted by Sandschneider is the West’s dependence on China for rare earth minerals, essential components in numerous technologies.Disruption to this supply chain,he warned,could severely impede Western industrial production,perhaps bringing “the wheels to a standstill.”
Key Personnel:
Tim Rühlig serves as Senior Analyst for Asia and ”Global China” at the European Union Institute for Security Studies in Paris. His prior experience includes roles at the German council on Foreign relations (DGAP) and the European Commission.
Eberhard Sandschneider is a political scientist and leading German authority on China. he previously directed the research institute of the German Council on Foreign Relations in Berlin.
