WASHINGTON DC: U.S. President Donald Trump has dismissed concerns that closer ties between China, Russia, and their allies present a serious challenge to the United States on the global stage.
Speaking to reporters in the Oval Office, Trump emphasized his strong personal rapport with Chinese President Xi Jinping and claimed that China relies more on the U.S. than the U.S. does on China.
Beijing has increasingly positioned itself as a counterforce to U.S. global influence, particularly in the wake of the Trump administration’s trade war, which disrupted international markets.
Trump, however, defended his use of tariffs, insisting they were necessary to protect American industries and interests, regardless of the diplomatic consequences, according to BBC.
In response to a question about whether China and its allies are forming an anti-U.S. coalition, Trump firmly denied the notion. “Not at all. China needs us,” he said, reiterating his belief that Washington holds the upper hand.
Trump also expressed dissatisfaction with President Putin, following a failed attempt to broker a peace deal on Ukraine during a recent meeting in Alaska. “I’m very disappointed in President Putin,” Trump said, adding that the U.S. would act to improve conditions for Ukrainians, though he offered no details.
Meanwhile, China has faced Western criticism for not condemning Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and for allegedly supporting Moscow by providing dual-use goods and purchasing Russian oil. Beijing denies any wrongdoing, BBC report said.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, in his nightly address, warned of renewed Russian troop movements along parts of the frontline, stating that Putin is refusing any efforts toward peace.
(Inputs from BBC)
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