Trump Blames China for ‘Not Sustainable’ Policy He Was ‘Forced’ To Enact

President Donald Trump is framing his “not sustainable” tariff policy as a direct consequence of Beijing’s actions, claiming “they forced me to do that” ahead of a critical summit with President Xi Jinping.
The meeting between the two leaders is scheduled for two weeks from now. Trump’s admission that the tariffs aren’t sustainable suggests he is looking for an off-ramp, which he can blame China for necessitating.
“I think we’re going to be fine with China,” Trump said, citing his “great” relationship with Xi. But he also warned that “China is always looking for an edge,” leaving the outcome of the talks in doubt.
The talks are urgent. A 90-day trade truce expires on November 10. This truce has been the only thing preventing a full-blown trade war, with duties as high as 145% looming.
The president’s rhetoric has been inconsistent. Last week, he threatened 100% tariffs and floated canceling the summit. This week, he is justifying the current tariffs as a necessary tool to secure a “fair deal.”