Trump Holds Firm on China Tariffs Ahead of Weekend Talks

President Trump remains firm on maintaining the 145% tariffs imposed on Chinese imports, rejecting calls to lower them as a condition for resuming negotiations with China. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent confirmed that while no negotiations had previously occurred, U.S. and Chinese officials are set to meet in Switzerland to discuss trade policy. The Trump administration argues that the tariffs are necessary for fair trade, though internal discussions have considered phased reductions to revive talks. While Trump defends the tariffs as justified, some administration figures and outside observers note that the rapid escalation has made the situation difficult to unwind, and point to broader strategic considerations regarding U.S.-China relations. Meanwhile, China’s economic difficulties are attributed in part to these tariffs, and Chinese officials are rallying public sentiment by blaming the U.S. for economic pain. Despite tough rhetoric and a hawkish inner circle, Trump's approach remains transactional, with hopes that direct leader-to-leader engagement may eventually improve relations.