Trump and Xi Meet in Washington as Trade Truce Faces Test

The Trump-Xi summit in Washington this week tests a fragile trade truce amid escalating competition over technology, Taiwan, and influence, with analysts warning miscalculation could heighten global conflict risks. The meeting follows a year-old truce brokered in South Korea, but both sides have since taken actions threatening the agreement. The US demands China ease critical mineral restrictions and increase purchases, while Beijing has expanded controls on foreign companies and mineral exports. Analysts compare the relationship to a water polo match, with cooperation above water and conflict beneath. The summit may address AI safety and tariff reductions, but deep mistrust limits progress, and ambiguity over Taiwan could escalate tensions into military confrontation.