Is anyone suprised that Donald Trump is bungling the China relationship?
This WSJ article sums it up well:
China is flexing its muscles, showing new confidence fueled by a belief that President Trump’s retreat from overseas commitments and his focus on the Western Hemisphere and trade deals create unique opportunities for Beijing.
As bonds between the U.S. and other democracies come under strain, Beijing’s new assertiveness also stems from pride over China’s prowess in future-defining technologies, from artificial intelligence to high-speed rail and clean energy. Those achievements come in parallel with a rapid military buildup.
The author points out that China’s leadership is growing more confident and assertive, convinced that Donald Trump’s “America First” shift—away from global alliances and toward the Western Hemisphere and trade deals—creates a historic opening for Beijing.
Chinese analysts say a turning point came after a fierce trade confrontation over tariffs and rare earths ended in a Trump–Xi truce in South Korea. Beijing views this “climbdown” as proof it can hit back hard, earn peer status, and force Washington to compromise. Many in China’s foreign-policy circles now argue the U.S.-China relationship has undergone a “structural change,” with America showing more “respect” for Chinese power.
We’re seeing more assertiveness, and the Trump administration destroying relationships around the world. This is a huge opening for China and you know they will press this advantage. Meanwhile Trump continues to create chaos. The damage will be hard to undo.
