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Pence criticises Trump’s softer China stance ahead of Xi meeting
Former Vice-President Mike Pence criticised the current Trump administration for what he sees as a softer approach to China, saying he is “shocked” by its cooperation with major US rivals. His remarks matter because they question whether the administration’s policies protect US security and technological advantage, shortly before Donald Trump is due to meet China’s Xi Jinping and Russia’s Vladimir Putin.
Pence contrasted the first Trump administration’s $250 billion in tariffs, regional military build-up and condemnation of the persecution of Uyghurs with decisions to let TikTok continue operating, delay weapons sales to Taiwan and ease export controls on advanced Nvidia chips. He said China had spent decades stealing US intellectual property and urged the administration to explain its approach, particularly as the US competes in artificial intelligence. The article says the three leaders are expected to meet on the sidelines of the APEC summit in Shenzhen.
In short
- Pence says Trump’s China policy has become too soft.
- He cites TikTok, Taiwan arms sales and Nvidia chips.
- Trump is due to meet Xi and Putin at the APEC summit.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
A firm approach to China can help protect US security, technological leadership and leverage in negotiations. From this perspective, allowing TikTok to operate, delaying arms sales to Taiwan and easing advanced-chip export controls risk weakening deterrence and giving Beijing access to capabilities that could support its military or erode US competitiveness.
The case against
Engagement and selective easing of restrictions can preserve room for diplomacy and reduce the risk of an escalating confrontation between two major powers. The administration could argue that targeted trade and technology measures, alongside continued cooperation where interests overlap, serve US security better than broad tariffs or restrictions that impose costs at home and foreclose useful leverage.
Explained simply
China is a major US rival in trade and technology, and the two countries compete for influence and military strength. US export controls limit China’s access to some advanced technology, while tariffs make certain imports more expensive; Taiwan is self-governing, but China claims it as part of its territory.
Mike Pence was Donald Trump’s vice-president during his first term and now criticises the current administration’s China policy. Trump is due to meet China’s President Xi Jinping and Russia’s President Vladimir Putin alongside an international summit, making relations with both countries a focus of attention.
The debate reflects questions about how the US should protect its security and technological lead while dealing with China. Artificial intelligence is one area of competition, and US companies such as Nvidia make advanced chips used to develop it.
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Originally published by Daily Mail as “Mike Pence knifes Trump for not drawing a harder line on China ahead of Xi and Putin meeting this week”.