Analysis: Donald Trump returned from his trip to China with little to show for the pomp and ceremony. Despite hopes of securing major trade deals and Chinese cooperation on Iran, the US president left Beijing empty-handed, with China continuing to support Iran's war efforts and offering no new trade agreements.
A Familiar Pattern
The visit mirrored Trump's failed summit with Vladimir Putin in Anchorage, Alaska. Once again, the US president was treated to grand displays of flags, flowers, and banquets, but faced blatant contempt wrapped in spectacle. Trump, seemingly unaware of his predicament, appeared out of his depth against a strategic adversary.
Racist Praise and No Substance
During the trip, Trump made racially charged remarks about Xi, calling him 'tall, very tall, and especially for this country, because they tend to be a little bit shorter.' Behind the scenes, Chinese officials reportedly mocked the US president. Beijing also issued a stern warning on Taiwan, threatening outright conflict if Trump intervened.
Trade and Iran: No Progress
Trump hoped to sell Boeing aircraft, but only secured orders for 200 planes, far short of the 500 Boeing anticipated. On Iran, Trump gained no commitments. China refused to leverage its influence to open the Strait of Hormuz, which Iran has blocked since February, driving oil prices above $100 a barrel. China receives nearly half its oil from the Gulf and enjoys discounted Iranian oil, giving it little incentive to act.
Iran Seizes the Moment
As Trump departed, Iran's foreign minister announced that all vessels except those at war with Iran could transit the Strait of Hormuz, reinforcing a perception of Iran as a victim rather than an aggressor. China had everything to gain by offering Trump a diplomatic win, but Xi chose not to bother.
Trump's Weakness Exposed
Trump admires Xi and Putin for their near-absolute power, unconstrained by democracy. He has attempted to emulate them by creating dependent military and security services, undermining judicial independence, and fostering oligarchic cronyism. However, while Xi has a long-term strategic vision, Trump lacks any vision beyond personal power and enrichment.
The US remains the world's largest economy and most powerful military, with cultural influence reaching every household. Yet Trump was brushed off with a tea party in Beijing and sent home with a meagre goody bag.
