A phone conversation took place between Chinese leader Xi Jinping and former US President Donald Trump. While details remain scarce, the event is politically significant for Trump, who highlights his direct contact with the Chinese leader.
The call occurred against the backdrop of an anticipated partial sale of TikTok and ongoing trade talks between Washington and Beijing. Experts believe the pending TikTok agreement is favorable for China: Beijing retains some control over the platform, while Trump appeals to American users by promising not to shut down the social network, which is popular among various age groups.
Negotiations on tariffs and duties are also ongoing. Another meeting between the parties may take place in October. These developments influence the course of the Russia-Ukraine war, with the possibility that both the US and China may exert pressure on Russia to push for negotiations or even a freeze of the conflict.
Experts suggest that such a freeze could be implemented along the existing frontline, formalized by a ceasefire document. This arrangement could pave the way for future security guarantees for Ukraine, with the demarcation line further fortified as discussions continue.
This temporary halt scenario is acceptable to both Trump and China, as it preserves the status quo and allows a focus on long-term strategic issues. However, it is not fully acceptable for Russia, as it doesn’t address all of the Kremlin’s territorial demands. Ukrainian authorities have confirmed that they are not willing to give up Donbas, even though various plans and ideas circulate in the international arena.
Questions remain regarding the political and diplomatic aspects of Crimea and humanitarian access routes. The parties are exploring ways to avoid escalation and seek compromise.
