Former U.S. President Donald Trump has declared that, if he returns to the White House, China would not dare provoke him due to their respect for his assertive and unpredictable leadership. Speaking to the Wall Street Journal’s editorial board, Trump said Chinese President Xi Jinping is well aware of his bold approach, calling himself “crazy” in reference to how Xi views him.
Trump, who is campaigning for the Republican nomination in the 2024 U.S. presidential election, said he would impose hefty tariffs on China if it moved to blockade Taiwan. “I would say: if you go into Taiwan, I’m sorry to do this, I’m going to tax you at 150% to 200%,” Trump told the Journal. This, he argued, would deter any aggressive moves by China without the need for military force.
The former president emphasized his belief that U.S. adversaries, including China, would not act against American interests under a second Trump presidency due to fears of a forceful and unpredictable response. He claimed that during his previous time in office, his personal relationship with Xi Jinping helped maintain stability. “He respects me, and he knows I’m [expletive] crazy,” Trump said.
Despite his tough rhetoric, Trump noted that he had a strong rapport with Xi, though he stopped short of calling him a close ally. “I had a very strong relationship with him. He was actually a really good, I don’t want to say friend… but I got along with him great,” Trump explained, acknowledging Xi as a “very fierce person.”
Trump also reflected on his relationship with Russian President Vladimir Putin, claiming he had a similar dynamic with the Russian leader. He described his interactions with Putin as positive, but also detailed a tough conversation in which he warned Putin not to invade Ukraine. According to Trump, he told Putin, “I’m going to hit you right in the middle of fricking Moscow.” Trump added, “We’re friends. I don’t want to do it, but I have no choice.”
Despite previously facing criticism for praising Putin, Trump insisted his strong language was meant to deter aggression. He warned Putin of severe consequences, saying, “You’re going to be hit so hard, and I’m going to take those [expletive] domes right off your head.”
On the campaign trail, Trump has vowed to prioritize an “America First” foreign policy, which includes ending U.S. involvement in the Russia-Ukraine war. His choice of running mate, Ohio Senator JD Vance, has further raised concerns among Ukraine’s allies due to Vance’s strong opposition to sending additional U.S. aid to the country.
Trump’s tough talk on foreign policy continues to be a key aspect of his campaign, with promises to wield tariffs and economic pressure to safeguard U.S. interests abroad, while his critics argue that his approach risks isolating America from its allies.
