US President Donald Trump, who once built his political rise on portraying China as a threat to American jobs and economic power, is now striking a markedly warmer tone toward President Xi Jinping — even preparing to host him for a state dinner. The shift highlights a complex recalibration in Washington’s approach to Beijing at a time when the two powers remain locked in a contest for global economic and technological influence.
During his first presidential campaign, Trump accused China of hollowing out US manufacturing and weakening America’s middle class. His administration imposed sweeping tariffs, hoping to force Beijing to change its trade practices. But when those measures failed to produce major concessions, Trump increasingly leaned on his personal relationship with Xi, calling him “a great gentleman” and praising their “very good trading relationship.”
This softer stance comes even as China expands its dominance in manufacturing, electric vehicles, and artificial intelligence, creating economic risks for the US and its allies, including Germany, Italy, France, South Korea, and Japan. Trump has also downplayed reports of China supplying Iran with satellite imagery and softened earlier accusations about Chinese access to US voter files.
Critics argue that Trump’s relationship‑focused diplomacy risks undermining broader US efforts to compete with China on trade, technology, and global influence. Supporters say cultivating Xi could help reduce tensions and open channels for negotiation.