Chinese President Xi Jinping greeted Donald Trump with an ominous warning about the risk of war between the US and China during their face-to-face summit in Beijing. The meeting, held in the Great Hall of the People in Tiananmen Square, marked the first time the two leaders had met since the Iran war began on February 28, 2026.

Xi Jinping invokes the 'Thucydides Trap'

Xi Jinping opened the summit with a loaded reference to the 'Thucydides Trap,' a term coined by ancient Greek historian Thucydides to describe the danger of conflict when an estbalished power feels threatened by a rising civilization.. According to the report, Xi asked Trump, 'The world has come to a new crossroads. Can China and the US overcome the Thucydides Trap and create a new paradigm?'

Trump praises the 'happy and beautiful' children

Trump, seemingly unfazed by Xi's portentous framing, was effusive in return and praised the pageantry of his welcome. He called it 'an honor like few have ever seen before' and singled out the 'happy and beautiful' children for special praise. According to the report, Trump told Xi, 'It's an honor to be with you, it's an honor to be your friend, and the relationship between China and the USA is going to be better than ever before.'

Trump's warm reception in Beijing

Trump had been dazzled moments earlier by the full red-carpet treatment laid on by his Chinese host. According to the report, he was met by goose-stepping troops, thundering cannons, and flag-waving children. The report also mentions that Trump walked over to Xi, who was waiting by the steps, and the pair shook hands, with Trump warmly patting the Chinese leader's hand as they exchanged a few words.

Escalating tensions between the US and China

Xi Jinping's warning comes amid escalating tensions between the US and China.. The report does not provide specific details about the issues causing the tensions, but it is clear that Xi is concerned about the potential for conflict between the two countries . The report also does not mention any specific actions or policies that Trump has taken that may have contributed to the tensions.