The Playbook Podcast Trump tackles tricky trade talks
Oct 29, 2025
President Trump's Asia trip is heating up with trade talks in South Korea and a pivotal meeting with Xi Jinping on the horizon. The hosts dive into the challenges of finalizing the Korea trade deal and Trump's optimistic outlook on China, including managing fentanyl and rare earths. There’s chatter about potentially shifting stances on Taiwan and Trump's controversial comments on the Middle East. The discussion also brushes against the implications of a possible military deployment domestically and the looming Fed interest rate decision.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Korea Meeting Is A Prelude To Xi Summit
- Trump's South Korea visit is a test of a partially negotiated deal that may not be finalized today.
- The meeting is framed as a precursor to the higher-stakes summit with China and Xi Jinping tomorrow.
Optimism Without Details On China Talks
- Trump presented strong optimism about his upcoming meeting with Xi but gave few concrete details.
- Dasha and Jack emphasize his upbeat rhetoric often lacks specific policy commitments.
Taiwan Status Quo Could Be At Risk
- Reporters worry aides fear Trump might casually change U.S. stance on Taiwan in his meeting with Xi.
- Trump responded vaguely, saying "Taiwan is Taiwan" and that there may be nothing to discuss.