President Trump Confronts Xi as US-China Relations Hang in Balance

Video Description

U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping held a bilateral meeting in Busan, South Korea, on October 30, 2025, on the sidelines of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit. The talks focused on de-escalating trade tensions and addressing key disputes over trade tariffs, technology, and the fentanyl crisis. This was the first in-person meeting between the two leaders since Trump won the 2024 presidential election, and the first time they had met since 2019. Key outcomes and talking points Trade tariffs: Negotiations were aimed at managing the economic relationship after months of escalating trade actions, including additional tariffs imposed by Trump in 2025. Both leaders projected optimism, with Trump hinting at a possible trade deal. Fentanyl crisis: Trump indicated he would lower some tariffs related to fentanyl if China committed to stronger controls on precursor chemicals used to make the drug. News outlets reported that China was expected to make such a commitment during the meeting. Rare-earth metals and technology: The leaders discussed China's export controls on rare-earth minerals and U.S. restrictions on semiconductor exports to China. A trade truce was expected to include a temporary pause on these restrictions. TikTok divestiture: It was expected that the leaders would finalize a previously agreed-upon framework for U.S. investors to acquire TikTok's U.S. operations. Russia's war in Ukraine: Geopolitical issues, including Russia's ongoing war in Ukraine and the U.S. position on Taiwan, were also on the agenda. Tone of the meeting: Before the talks, Trump told reporters he expected a "great deal" with China. Upon meeting, Trump called Xi a "very tough negotiator" and "a great leader of a great country," while Xi expressed his desire to work with Trump. Next steps Following the meeting, observers anticipated a truce with some "small wins" rather than a comprehensive, grand bargain. A larger agreement is reportedly planned for a potential Trump state visit to China in 2026. Join this channel to get access to perks: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKBNaxsFV4hpGVc8QOUmsFg/join Defense Now | October 2025 https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLe95fdmDwNk97Gbdq8vMVx7XHczVXXpBQ&si=u5MSV-SX0GkLUmYA Members-only videos https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=UUMOKBNaxsFV4hpGVc8QOUmsFg President Trump Participates in a Bilateral Meeting with President Xi President Trump Greets the President of the People's Republic of China President Trump participates in a bilateral meeting with President Xi of the People's Republic of China Busan, South Korea Film Credits: White House Communications Agency