Trump, Xi Hold First Call in Months, Plan TikTok Deal, APEC Meeting

US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping held a phone call that marked progress on several critical issues, including trade tensions, fentanyl trafficking, the Russia-Ukraine war, and a TikTok deal that would allow the app to continue operating in the US. The leaders agreed to meet face-to-face at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit in South Korea next month, with Trump planning a visit to China in early 2026 and Xi expected to visit the US later. Trump's administration has imposed tariffs on Chinese imports, contributing to strained trade relations, but he emphasized the importance of tariffs for US manufacturing jobs while seeking to negotiate trade matters. The TikTok deal reportedly involves US firms like Oracle licensing algorithm technology from ByteDance, allowing TikTok's continued US operations, though some US lawmakers remain concerned about potential Chinese Communist Party influence. China's official stance emphasizes fair commercial negotiations under Chinese laws, seeking an open and non-discriminatory business environment in the US. Trump has expressed support for TikTok as a valuable platform, particularly for young voters and US influence, signaling a shift from his earlier position advocating for a ban.