Xi to demand Trump oppose Taiwan independence in trade talks

According to WSJ sources, Xi wants the US to shift its policy in a way that, Beijing hopes, would weaken and isolate Taiwan. His goal is to end Washington's support for the island's independence.

"It would signal a shift in US policy from a neutral position to one that actively aligns with Beijing against Taiwanese sovereignty — a change that could further cement Xi's hold on power at home," the WSJ wrote.

The sources said Xi believes he can convince Trump to agree. In return, China would offer the economic deal that Trump has been seeking.

Uncertain relations

This comes as US-Taiwan relations have become increasingly uncertain. Unlike President Joe Biden, Trump avoided direct statements on whether Washington would fight China if it invaded Taiwan, arguing that such remarks would weaken his negotiating position.

Sources close to the White House said the administration is focused on deterring China from attacking Taiwan, while also pressing Taipei to boost defense spending, including on drones and ammunition.

Trump, China, and Taiwan

Earlier, US media reported that Trump declined to approve more than $400 million in military aid for Taiwan that was scheduled for delivery this summer. The decision was tied to talks with China, as Trump sought to use it as leverage for a trade agreement and a possible summit with Xi Jinping.

At the same time, Russia is helping China prepare for a potential assault on Taiwan, supplying military equipment and conducting large-scale exercises for Chinese airborne forces.

China has long claimed Taiwan as part of its territory and labels its government "separatist." In 1949, remnants of the anti-communist Kuomintang, defeated by Mao Zedong in the Chinese Civil War, fled to the island. Since then, Taiwan has remained outside Beijing's control, while China has been determined to bring it back under its authority.