Trump Says Xi Promised No Taiwan Invasion During his Term as US President
U.S. President Donald Trump has claimed that Chinese President Xi Jinping assured him China would not attempt to invade Taiwan during his presidency. In a Fox News interview, Trump said Xi gave a clear commitment that any moves on Taiwan would not occur while he is in office. According to Trump, Xi spoke about China’s long-term vision for reunification but stressed that Beijing would not act hastily. Trump described the assurance as an important signal of stability in U.S.-China relations.
Diplomatic Context
The statement came as Trump prepares for high-stakes talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Anchorage, Alaska, aimed at finding ways to reduce tensions in Ukraine. Against this backdrop, Trump highlighted Xi’s assurance as a sign of China’s willingness to maintain dialogue rather than pursue confrontation over Taiwan. The Taiwan issue has been a major flashpoint in U.S.-China ties, with Washington continuing arms sales to Taipei and strengthening defense partnerships in the Indo-Pacific region.
China’s Position
China has not directly confirmed Trump’s remarks. However, the Chinese Embassy in Washington reiterated that Taiwan remains a “core interest” and urged the U.S. to respect the One-China principle, which Beijing considers non-negotiable. China has previously warned against U.S. military and political support to Taiwan, viewing it as interference in its internal affairs.
Taiwan’s Reaction
Taiwanese lawmakers responded cautiously, welcoming international focus on their security but warning against reliance on foreign assurances alone. They stressed the importance of strengthening Taiwan’s own defense capabilities, including modernizing military equipment and increasing regional security cooperation. The remarks from both Washington and Beijing come at a sensitive time, as tensions in the Taiwan Strait remain high with frequent Chinese military activity near the island.
