Trump needs China’s help fixing the global oil crisis. It’s unlikely to play along
Trump Needs China’s Help Fixing the Global Oil Crisis. It’s Unlikely to Play Along
As President Donald Trump prepares to address key US-China tensions in Beijing, a new demand has emerged: securing the Strait of Hormuz. This move comes amid escalating concerns over a historic energy crisis triggered by Iran’s blockade of the vital shipping route. By restricting passage through the strait, Tehran has disrupted roughly 20% of global oil flow, sending prices soaring and raising alarms about potential supply disruptions.
Trump’s Strategy to Win China’s Support
With the global economy teetering under the strain of rising fuel costs, Trump has turned to allies like France, Japan, and Britain to stabilize the situation. Yet, his focus on China remains central. During an interview with the Financial Times, he emphasized the need for Beijing’s involvement, threatening to postpone the summit with Xi Jinping if China hesitates. “Those who benefit from the strait should ensure stability there,” he stated, implying China should contribute to the effort.
“It’s only appropriate that people who are the beneficiaries of the strait will help to make sure that nothing bad happens there,” Trump told the FT. “I think China should help too.”
China’s Strategic Resilience
While Trump’s request appears bold, China’s position is less precarious. Over recent years, Beijing has fortified its energy security through strategic reserves, diversified oil sources, and investments in renewable energy. These measures have shielded it from the worst impacts of a prolonged oil shortage. Additionally, Iran’s consideration of allowing oil shipments in yuan further underscores China’s influence in the region.
Domestic Backlash and Geopolitical Tensions
The ongoing conflict in the Strait of Hormuz has cast a shadow over the Beijing summit. Trump now faces domestic criticism as fuel prices climb, with some analysts noting his diminished leverage in negotiations. Earlier this year, the Supreme Court’s ruling on his tariff authority weakened his bargaining power. Despite this, he continues to push for alliances, warning NATO of dire consequences if members don’t commit warships.
China’s Mixed Stance on the Crisis
While Chinese state media has called for unity in global challenges, the Global Times voiced skepticism about sending warships to the strait. “Is this really about ‘sharing responsibility’ – or is it about sharing the risk of a war that Washington started and can’t finish?” questioned an unnamed author in the op-ed. Meanwhile, China has criticized both Iran’s attacks and its own strikes against neighboring states, maintaining a balanced approach in the region.
At a Monday press briefing, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian reiterated the importance of the upcoming meeting, offering no clear endorsement of Trump’s appeal. “Head-of-state diplomacy is crucial for guiding China-US relations,” Lin said, highlighting the meeting’s significance despite the current tensions.
“The US needs China more than China needs the US,” observed Henry Huiyao Wang, leader of the Center for China and Globalization. This sentiment reflects China’s calculated approach, where its strategic partnerships and economic stability provide room to maneuver without significant risk.
