China confirms talks on possible Xi-Trump-Putin meeting in Shenzhen

China has confirmed it is discussing a potential trilateral meeting between President Xi Jinping, U.S. President Donald Trump, and Russian President Vladimir Putin, marking the first official acknowledgment of such talks. The meeting could occur this month on the sidelines of an Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in Shenzhen, which China is hosting. Experts say the gathering would likely be symbolic, with leaders posing for photos rather than engaging in substantive discussions due to conflicting interests. Russia is reportedly pushing for the meeting to discuss Ukraine without Kyiv present, while Trump has expressed interest in nuclear arms control. Analysts note China seeks the diplomatic image without bearing costs, and the summit may produce little consequential outcome.