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Trump Calls Xi — Then Japan’s Prime Minister: Both Beijing and Tokyo Claim Diplomatic Wins

President Trump spoke with China’s Xi Jinping and then Japan’s prime minister; both governments portrayed the calls as diplomatic victories. The row followed comments by Japan’s leader about possible intervention if China tried to take Taiwan, prompting sharp denunciations and abusive rhetoric from some Chinese sources. Chinese state media called the Xi call "a tactical win," while Tokyo highlighted that Trump referred to the prime minister as "a very close friend." Analysts say the dispute is unlikely to be settled soon.

04:55 PM, 11/25/2025Politics
Trump Calls Xi — Then Japan’s Prime Minister: Both Beijing and Tokyo Claim Diplomatic Wins

US President Donald Trump spoke with China’s leader Xi Jinping and, shortly afterward, phoned Japan’s prime minister. Both Beijing and Tokyo framed the back-to-back calls as diplomatic wins amid escalating tensions over Taiwan.

The dispute intensified after Japan’s leader suggested Tokyo might intervene militarily if China attempted to seize Taiwan. Beijing responded with fierce denunciations, and some Chinese officials and state-aligned commentators used abusive and extreme rhetoric directed at the Japanese leader. The White House, meanwhile, has largely remained silent on the public spat.

Chinese state media: "a tactical win"

Japan: Trump called the prime minister "a very close friend"

Why it matters

Both capitals appear to be tailoring the narrative for domestic audiences: China signaling strength and diplomatic leverage, and Japan emphasizing personal rapport with the US president. Analysts warn the exchanges are unlikely to resolve the underlying dispute, which reflects broader regional friction over Taiwan and the delicate balance of US relations with both China and Japan.

What to watch: further diplomatic messaging from Beijing and Tokyo, any clarifications from Washington, and whether the rhetoric around Taiwan escalates or is dialed back.

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