Trump seeks Xi Jinping’s crucial support in Asia tour to corner Putin and halt Ukraine war

International News: US President Donald Trump has launched a major diplomatic mission by traveling across Asia, aiming to bring China into America’s strategy against Russia. His statement has stirred global attention because he openly admitted that Washington cannot manage the Ukraine crisis alone.

Trump said he will raise the issue directly with Chinese President Xi Jinping, stressing that Beijing’s involvement could change the entire equation. According to Trump, only when China pressures Russia will Putin’s military campaign face real limits. The timing is significant, as the war has crossed two years and continues despite sanctions.

Why is Washington feeling the heat?

Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump said the US has already imposed the toughest sanctions ever on Russia. He described them as “very strong, very significant” and insisted they will eventually hurt Moscow. But American officials privately admit that Russia’s energy exports and trade with Asian partners have reduced the impact. That is why Trump is now appealing to China, which remains Russia’s largest strategic partner. If Beijing shifts its stance or even signals restraint, it could drastically weaken Putin’s confidence. Trump knows the stakes are high.

What does Trump expect from Xi?

According to Trump, his meeting with Xi Jinping will not be limited to Ukraine. He also plans to raise issues of US-China trade tensions and the larger security balance in Asia. Analysts say Trump hopes that by offering space for cooperation, he can persuade Beijing to lean against Moscow. This is a bold gamble, as China has so far avoided taking sides. But Trump believes that framing the Ukraine crisis as a threat to global trade may appeal to Xi’s economic priorities. A breakthrough, however, remains uncertain.

Why is the Asia tour important?

Trump’s tour will take him first to the ASEAN Summit in Malaysia, where he will meet regional leaders. From there, he will head to South Korea for the APEC Summit in Busan, holding talks with President Lee Jae-myung. Later, his most crucial meeting will be with Xi Jinping in Beijing. This multi-country journey is designed to show America’s diplomatic reach in Asia. On one side, Trump is strengthening ties with allies like Japan and South Korea; on the other, he is positioning China as a possible partner in pressuring Russia.

What is Moscow’s reaction so far?

Russia has downplayed Trump’s remarks in public but is closely monitoring his moves. Kirill Dmitriev, President Putin’s special envoy, told reporters that Moscow, Washington, and Kyiv are actually nearing a diplomatic formula for peace. Yet the comment comes as the US expands sanctions against Russia’s oil sector, tightening financial screws. For Moscow, the idea of Beijing siding with Washington would be deeply unsettling. Russia relies on China for trade, energy deals, and political backing at the United Nations. Trump’s diplomacy, therefore, could alter Moscow’s strategic comfort zone.

Is China ready to cooperate with America?

China has so far walked a careful line, calling for peace but avoiding criticism of Russia. Xi Jinping values his partnership with Putin, particularly in countering Western influence. But Beijing also wants stability for global trade routes and energy supplies, which have been disrupted by the war. Experts believe China could quietly pressure Russia to accept negotiations, without appearing to bow to Washington. Trump is counting on this balancing act. Whether Xi takes that step or not will shape the outcome of this tour. The world is watching closely.

What lies ahead for Trump’s strategy?

Trump’s Asia tour carries both risks and opportunities. If he convinces Xi Jinping to join his pressure campaign, it could open new pathways to peace in Ukraine. If he fails, Washington’s leverage weakens, and Russia continues with more confidence. At the same time, Trump wants to reassure Asian allies that America remains the leading force in regional security. This is why his speeches emphasize both partnership and deterrence. For Trump, success would mean reshaping the battlefield without firing a shot. For Putin, the challenge would suddenly grow far more complex.