Trump and Putin in Beijing underscore US‑China strategic rivalry

In mid‑May, U.S. President Donald Trump made a visit to Beijing, followed days later by Russian President Vladimir Putin’s trip to the Chinese capital. Analysts noted the back‑to‑back visits highlighted Beijing’s growing diplomatic prominence, though the dynamics differed: Trump’s arrival was interpreted as weakened after the stalled war in Iran, while Putin’s visit sought to reinforce Moscow’s ties with China.

Both leaders conducted largely procedural talks without signing any formal agreements. Discussions reportedly covered a range of issues, including artificial‑intelligence “red‑line” cooperation, semiconductor and rare‑earth supply chains, and the defensive posture toward Taiwan. Chinese President Xi Jinping used the meetings to reinforce China’s desire to be recognised as a super‑power equal to the United States, even hinting at a possible G2 partnership.

Meanwhile, China faces economic pressures, having lost about half its oil imports from Venezuela and the Middle East and confronting difficulties repaying a large share of its $2 trillion of overseas loans. The Chinese government is urging domestic firms to replace U.S. components with locally produced technology, aiming to reduce reliance on American tech. No deal on Boeing aircraft or other major trade items was concluded during the visits.