China’s leader Xi Jinping has urged the United States to act with “prudence” in supplying weapons to Taiwan, describing the island as the most sensitive issue in China–US relations during a phone call with US President Donald Trump, according to Chinese state media.
The conversation, which Trump later described as “excellent” and “long and thorough,” comes amid renewed diplomatic engagement between Beijing and Western capitals and ahead of Trump’s expected visit to China later this year.
Taiwan at the Centre of the Call
Xi reiterated Beijing’s long-standing position that Taiwan is part of China and said the country must safeguard its sovereignty and territorial integrity. He warned Washington to handle arms sales to the island carefully, framing the issue as a core concern that could shape the future of bilateral ties.
China has repeatedly opposed US military support for Taiwan, arguing that such moves undermine regional stability and encourage separatist sentiment. The United States, while maintaining formal diplomatic relations with Beijing rather than Taipei, remains Taiwan’s most important security partner and largest arms supplier.
Recent Arms Sales and Rising Tensions
The call follows Washington’s approval of a major arms package for Taiwan late last year, reportedly worth around $11bn, including advanced missile systems and artillery. Beijing condemned the deal at the time, warning that it could accelerate instability across the Taiwan Strait.
US officials have consistently said arms sales are defensive in nature and aimed at preserving deterrence rather than altering the status quo.
Trade, Ukraine and Energy Also Discussed
Beyond Taiwan, the two leaders discussed a range of global issues, including Russia’s war in Ukraine, developments in Iran, and energy trade. Trump said China was considering significantly increasing its purchases of US soybeans and also highlighted discussions on oil and gas trade between the two countries.
Trump struck an optimistic tone following the call, saying both sides recognised the importance of maintaining stable relations despite persistent disagreements.
Taiwan Responds
Taiwan’s leadership downplayed any immediate impact from the call, stating that cooperation with the United States remains steady and that existing defence and security projects are continuing as planned.
Why This Matters
The exchange underscores the fragile balance in China–US relations, where economic engagement and high-level diplomacy coexist with deep strategic rivalry. Taiwan remains the most likely flashpoint between the two powers, with arms sales, military activity and political signalling closely watched across the region.
As Washington and Beijing attempt to stabilise ties, how both sides manage the Taiwan issue will be a key test of whether competition can be contained — or escalates further.
