Trump team flags risk of unexpected China action on Taiwan — Axios
Donald Trump, Xi Jinping (photo: Getty Images)
Advisers to US President Donald Trump are expressing serious concerns about Beijing's plans. They suggest that China could attempt a military invasion of Taiwan within the next five years, according to Axios.
Xi Jinping's stance, concerns in Washington
Sources cited by the outlet say concerns within Donald Trump's circle intensified after his recent meeting with Chinese leader Xi Jinping in Beijing.
Although the US president reportedly appreciated the ceremonial reception and special privileges arranged by the Chinese side, Xi's message was far from friendly.
One of Trump's advisers said that Xi Jinping is making active efforts to position China at a fundamentally new geopolitical level.
"We're not a rising power. We're your equal. And Taiwan is mine," the source described the Chinese leader's logic.
Another Axios source confirmed that the US leader's visit to China showed a significantly increased likelihood that the Taiwan issue could become a major point of confrontation within the next five years.
Threat to global technology
Beyond political and military risks, Trump advisers also predict major consequences for the global economy. In the event of a conflict over the island, the planet could face a global crisis in semiconductor production.
Taiwan is one of the world's key producers of semiconductors, which US companies rely on to develop artificial intelligence systems, manufacture advanced smartphones, and produce other high-tech products.
During the summit, Xi Jinping warned Trump that a misstep by the US on Taiwan could trigger a direct confrontation between Washington and Beijing.
Tensions around Taiwan
Recently, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said that the US policy on Taiwan remains unchanged, despite Xi Jinping's strong warnings about the risk of direct military confrontation between the two countries.
At the same time, US President Donald Trump warned Taiwan against formally declaring independence after talks in Beijing. He stressed that he does not support such a move and aims to avoid further escalation in relations with China, but added that he has not yet made a final decision on future military contracts.
Amid these statements, Taiwan has urged the United States not to halt arms deliveries. The island government is deeply concerned about a possible review of US defense support and insists on continuing weapons contracts to maintain regional balance.
