Trump and Xi prepare for May summit as officials manage US-China tensions
Updated
Updated · The Wall Street Journal · Apr 27
Trump and Xi prepare for May summit as officials manage US-China tensions
13 articles · Updated · The Wall Street Journal · Apr 27
Hundreds of US and Chinese officials are coordinating security, protocol, and logistics for the May 14-15 Beijing summit, the first US presidential state visit to China in nearly a decade.
Preparations include strict measures to prevent diplomatic incidents, with heightened caution following a recent shooting at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner and past protocol disputes between the two nations.
The summit comes amid deepening distrust over trade, technology, and Taiwan, with both sides emphasizing optics and symbolism to avoid missteps that could worsen bilateral relations.
Could less security and protocol actually lead to more productive U.S.-China summits?
Is the elaborate theater of diplomacy hiding a lack of substance in U.S.-China talks?
After the Iran conflict postponed the summit, what is the new path to dialogue?
Beyond tariffs, what 'Great Deals' on technology and resources are truly on the table?
With security collecting DNA and welding manholes, how can leaders build genuine trust?
As AI competition heats up, what safeguards can prevent a digital 'Thucydides Trap'?
Strait of Hormuz Blockade and 2026 Trump-Xi Summit: Energy Security, Trade Wars, and Taiwan Flashpoints
Overview
The U.S.-Israeli attack on Iran in February 2026 triggered Iran's closure of the Strait of Hormuz, leading to a U.S. military blockade that severely disrupted China's oil and LNG imports. This energy crisis forced China to urgently adjust its import strategy while condemning U.S. actions and maintaining strategic naval restraint. Amid allegations of Chinese arms support to Iran, the U.S. threatened steep tariffs, prompting China to hint at rare earth export controls. These tensions delayed the Trump-Xi summit to May 2026, where energy security, trade disputes, and Taiwan's future dominate discussions. Taiwan, increasing its defense budget amid Chinese pressure, fears being sidelined in negotiations. The summit's outcome will shape global economic stability and geopolitical alignments.