Beijing | May 15, 2026
U.S. President Donald Trump’s high-profile visit to China concluded amid renewed tensions over Taiwan, after Chinese President Xi Jinping issued a sharp warning that any mishandling of the Taiwan issue could trigger direct conflict between the two major powers.
During the Beijing summit, Xi reportedly emphasized that Taiwan remains the “most critical issue” in U.S.–China relations and warned that support for Taiwan independence could lead to serious escalation. The remarks came during closed-door talks held as part of Trump’s state visit, which included ceremonial welcomes and strategic discussions on trade, Iran, and regional security.
According to multiple reports, Xi urged Washington to strictly adhere to the One China policy and avoid actions that could encourage separatist movements in Taiwan. He stressed that peace in the Taiwan Strait depends on how the United States manages its position on the island’s political status.
Trump, meanwhile, reiterated his administration’s preference for stability in the Indo-Pacific region and avoided any public endorsement of Taiwan independence. Officials said discussions remained tense but focused on preventing open confrontation and maintaining communication channels between Washington and Beijing.
The summit ended without major breakthroughs, but analysts say the Taiwan warning underscores rising geopolitical friction, even as both leaders project cooperation on trade and global issues
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