No warming in U.S.-China relations expected: expert on Trump-Xi meeting

This was stated on Espreso TV by Kateryna Musienko, head of the department of external relations, strategic partnerships, and innovation at the NGO ANTS.

"Trump's goal was to secure new contracts and support from a number of countries, including South Korea and Japan, and ultimately to show China that America has not lost its influence in Asia and is capable of enlisting the support of its allies and demonstrating its strength to China. That is why the conversation is based on the fact that Trump could attract new investments and discuss defense cooperation," Musienko said.

According to the expert, the key outcome of the talks in South Korea was the approval of the construction of a nuclear-powered submarine, a move that significantly strengthens the region’s security. This marks the first time South Korea has received such authorization, representing a serious shift in the regional balance of power — a development that is undoubtedly causing concern in China.

Trump is not making statements directly, but through agreements with countries, sending a signal to China that America is serious about dominating the region — both economically, by strengthening agreements, and in terms of defense.

"This visit has been very successful for America, as South Korea alone has promised to invest $350 billion in the American economy in exchange for permission in the defense sector. The economy and security are now closely linked. Trump is trying to show China that not only China can invest in the region and provide economic support, but also that America is not abandoning this region," Musienko noted.

The expert also added that China is concerned about this development, because economic agreements are one thing, but U.S. nuclear submarines and new nuclear tests mean increased combat capability and readiness for America, as well as a step towards an arms race.

“America is moving from passive diplomacy to a more active phase of confrontation, so a thaw in U.S.-China relations is not expected at this time,” Musienko stressed.

• Talks were held in South Korea between U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping, during which, in particular, the issue of trade between the world's two largest economies was discussed. Ukraine was also among the topics.