Xi warns Trump mishandling of Taiwan issue will push US-China ties to 'dangerous place'

Chinese President Xi Jinping warned U.S. President Donald Trump that mishandling the Taiwan issue could push China–U.S. relations into conflict and a “very dangerous” situation. The remarks came during their Beijing summit, with Taiwan—claimed by Beijing but self-governed—described as the most sensitive issue in bilateral relations.

Beijing Newsroom/Reuters

May 14, 2026

Xi warns Trump mishandling of Taiwan issue will push US-China ties to 'dangerous place'

U.S. President Donald Trump participates in an welcome ceremony with Chinese President Xi Jinping at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, China, May 14, 2026.

Evan Vucci/Reuters

China's President Xi Jinping told U.S. President Donald Trump on Thursday that if the Taiwan issue is not handled well, the two countries will clash or even come into conflict, pushing China-U.S. relations into "a very dangerous place", Chinese state media Xinhua reported.

Xi called Taiwan the most important issue in China-U.S. relations in his meeting with Trump, who is in Beijing for a summit with the Chinese leader, according to Xinhua.

China views democratically governed Taiwan as its territory - a claim that Taipei rejects - and opposes U.S. arms sales to the island.

-Beijing Newsroom/Reuters