US must be prudent when supplying arms to Taiwan, Xi tells Trump

February 5, 2026

Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasized Taiwan as the central issue in China-US relations during a Wednesday phone call with President Trump, urging caution on American weapons sales to the island. The conversation, which Trump characterized as excellent, also covered topics including Ukraine, Iran, and increased Chinese purchases of American agricultural products and energy. The call reflects improving relations between the two nations following previous tensions over tariffs and trade restrictions, with both leaders emphasizing the importance of their bilateral relationship.

Who is affected

Taiwan and its leader Lai Ching-te
Chinese President Xi Jinping and the Chinese government
US President Donald Trump and his administration
Western leaders who have recently visited China, including UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer
Russian President Vladimir Putin
American soybean farmers and the US agricultural sector
Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro
European leaders concerned about Greenland

What action is being taken

Trump and Xi are conducting phone diplomacy and discussions
China is considering purchasing 20 million tonnes of US soybeans (up from 12 million)
Negotiators from both countries are working on implementing previously agreed frameworks for soybean and TikTok deals
Taiwan's ongoing cooperation projects with the US are continuing
Xi is holding meetings with both Trump and Putin to strengthen diplomatic ties

Why it matters

This matters because Taiwan represents a critical flashpoint in US-China relations where military conflict could potentially erupt, particularly given China's refusal to rule out using force for reunification. The improving diplomatic relationship between the world's two largest economies affects global stability, international trade, and geopolitical alliances. China's positioning as a "stabilizing force" amid Trump's controversial foreign policy moves could reshape the international order and influence how other nations navigate major power relations. The strengthening ties between China and Russia, combined with careful management of US-China relations, will significantly impact global peace and economic prosperity.

What's next

Trump is scheduled to visit China in April
Putin accepted Xi's invitation to visit China in the first half of the year
China is expected to continue its strategy of employing coercion to pressure Taiwan
Implementation of the soybean purchase increase and continued cooperation on previously negotiated deals

Read full article from source: BBC