News
November 25, 2025
Xi may want Trump to rein in Japan in spat with China, say analysts
China is keen to frame the issue and caution US against leaning towards Tokyo.
**Analysts Suggest Xi Jinping May Prefer Trump to Moderate Japan Amidst Rising Tensions with China**
Beijing is strategically framing its current disputes with Japan in hopes of influencing the United States and preventing Washington from aligning too closely with Tokyo, according to recent analysis. Experts suggest that Chinese President Xi Jinping might even see a potential advantage in a Trump administration, believing it could be more inclined to restrain Japan in the ongoing disagreements.
The underlying premise is that China is actively attempting to shape the narrative surrounding the disputes, presenting them in a way that highlights Japan's perceived provocations and emphasizes the need for external moderation. This carefully crafted approach aims to sway the US, a key player in the region, from offering unwavering support to its ally, Japan.
Several factors are likely driving this strategy. Firstly, China is wary of a united front between the US and Japan, which could significantly strengthen Japan's position in the disputes. By subtly cautioning the US against automatically siding with Tokyo, Beijing hopes to create space for negotiation and prevent further escalation of tensions.
Secondly, some analysts believe that a Trump administration might be more transactional in its approach to foreign policy. This could mean that Trump would be less likely to offer unconditional support to Japan and more open to leveraging the situation to secure concessions from both sides. The perception is that Trump might be more willing to play the role of mediator, potentially leading to a more balanced outcome from China's perspective.
The specific issues fueling the tensions between China and Japan are complex and multifaceted. They often involve historical grievances, territorial disputes in the East China Sea, and differing interpretations of international law. China is acutely aware that US involvement can significantly influence the dynamics of these disputes.
Ultimately, China's strategy is a calculated gamble. It hinges on the assumption that it can successfully influence US perceptions of the situation and that a Trump administration would be more receptive to its arguments. However, it also carries the risk of backfiring, potentially alienating the US and further solidifying the alliance between Washington and Tokyo. The coming months will be crucial in determining whether Beijing's strategy proves successful in achieving its desired outcome.
Beijing is strategically framing its current disputes with Japan in hopes of influencing the United States and preventing Washington from aligning too closely with Tokyo, according to recent analysis. Experts suggest that Chinese President Xi Jinping might even see a potential advantage in a Trump administration, believing it could be more inclined to restrain Japan in the ongoing disagreements.
The underlying premise is that China is actively attempting to shape the narrative surrounding the disputes, presenting them in a way that highlights Japan's perceived provocations and emphasizes the need for external moderation. This carefully crafted approach aims to sway the US, a key player in the region, from offering unwavering support to its ally, Japan.
Several factors are likely driving this strategy. Firstly, China is wary of a united front between the US and Japan, which could significantly strengthen Japan's position in the disputes. By subtly cautioning the US against automatically siding with Tokyo, Beijing hopes to create space for negotiation and prevent further escalation of tensions.
Secondly, some analysts believe that a Trump administration might be more transactional in its approach to foreign policy. This could mean that Trump would be less likely to offer unconditional support to Japan and more open to leveraging the situation to secure concessions from both sides. The perception is that Trump might be more willing to play the role of mediator, potentially leading to a more balanced outcome from China's perspective.
The specific issues fueling the tensions between China and Japan are complex and multifaceted. They often involve historical grievances, territorial disputes in the East China Sea, and differing interpretations of international law. China is acutely aware that US involvement can significantly influence the dynamics of these disputes.
Ultimately, China's strategy is a calculated gamble. It hinges on the assumption that it can successfully influence US perceptions of the situation and that a Trump administration would be more receptive to its arguments. However, it also carries the risk of backfiring, potentially alienating the US and further solidifying the alliance between Washington and Tokyo. The coming months will be crucial in determining whether Beijing's strategy proves successful in achieving its desired outcome.
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World