Independent Thinking How closely is China watching the US?
Mar 21, 2025
In this discussion, Yu Jie, a senior research fellow at Chatham House, William Matthews, a security expert, and David Lubin, an economist, dive into China's view of the U.S. under Trump. They analyze China's shifting diplomatic strategies and military ambitions amid U.S. policy changes. The conversation also touches on the risks of economic decoupling, tariffs, and how these factors influence global trade dynamics. They further explore the implications for AI technology and international relations as tensions rise.
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China's Wait and See Approach
- Beijing expected Trump to win but was surprised by his rapid foreign policy changes.
- China now adopts a "wait and see" approach due to Trump's unpredictability.
China Media's Divided Messaging
- Chinese state media avoids direct criticism of Trump but attacks China hawks around him.
- Beijing calls for peaceful coexistence despite criticizing US China policy as antagonistic.
China Uneasy on US-Russia Talks
- Beijing feels uneasy about Trump’s outreach to Putin amid the Ukraine conflict.
- China waits to see European response before reacting.