President Donald Trump defended his hardline stance on China, brushing off questions about a trade war by stating, “Well, you’re in one now. We have a 100% tariff.”
This tough talk was paired with a justification that the tariffs are essential for US prestige: “If we didn’t have tariffs, we would be exposed as being a nothing.”
However, in the same interview, Trump admitted this hardline policy is “not sustainable.” He squared this circle by blaming China, claiming “they forced me to do that.”
This complex messaging comes as Trump confirmed a meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping in two weeks. He expressed hope for a “fair deal” and said, “I think we’re going to be fine.”
The talks are critical as a 90-day truce is set to expire on November 10, threatening a re-escalation of the trade war that has seen duties reach 145%.