Trump rolls out red-carpet welcome for Xi despite China criticism

President Donald Trump gave Chinese leader Xi Jinping an unusually lavish welcome at a summit this week, including a personal tarmac greeting and two red carpets, despite Trump's prior accusations that China interfered in U.S. elections and exploited American trade. Trump hosted Xi at the White House with a state dinner and gifts, emphasizing their personal friendship, while Xi announced China will send two giant pandas to the Atlanta zoo. Republican senators criticized the treatment, citing China's alleged military support for Iran and human rights concerns. No major breakthroughs are expected from the summit, which covers trade, the Iran war, and AI. Trump faces a weakened political position with low approval ratings and a looming midterm election, while China holds leverage over rare earth materials.