Trump and Xi Conclude High-Stakes Meeting in Busan

United States President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping concluded a meeting in Busan today, lasting one hour and forty minutes, amid escalating tensions over nuclear weapons testing and trade disputes.

The two leaders shook hands before departing the negotiations building, with Xi entering a limousine and Trump boarding Air Force One without addressing reporters. The meeting took place as President Trump earlier announced he had directed the Pentagon to resume nuclear weapons testing, mirroring actions by Russia and China, following Russia’s recent test of a nuclear-capable underwater drone. Trump stated on social media that he instructed the Department of War to begin testing “on an equal basis” due to testing programs by other nations. This move raises concerns about a potential new arms race.

The US delegation included Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, US Ambassador to China David Purdue, and White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles. China was represented by Foreign Minister Wang Yi, senior advisor Cai Qi, Vice Premier He Lifeng, and other key officials. Chinese shares climbed to a decade high during the initial stages of the meeting, reflecting investor optimism about potential de-escalation, though caution remained. The ongoing trade dispute between the two nations has significantly impacted global markets, and a resolution could have far-reaching economic consequences – learn more about the complexities of US-China trade relations from the Council on Foreign Relations.

Taiwan’s foreign minister expressed confidence in its relationship with the US amidst the talks, noting close cooperation on security matters. The US has previously indicated it will continue to support Taiwan, despite pursuing a trade deal with Beijing. The US Soybean farmers have been particularly impacted by the trade war, awaiting a resolution to regain access to the crucial Chinese market, as detailed in this report.

Neither leader has yet issued a public statement regarding the outcome of the discussions, but officials indicated further announcements are expected in the coming days.