Plant China a meeting between Putin and Trump?

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Lerato Khumalo

So far, the US President has not commented on this. It is no secret that Trump has already expressed interest in a trip to the People’s Republic. He likes atmospheric pictures and large productions. Also: Already at his meeting with the North Korean dictator Kim Jong un during his first term, the Republican showed no fear of contact for autocrats.

Nevertheless, there are also some reasons to ensure that the Americans could repeal a Chinese invitation. Firstly, the outrage in the West would be great if Trump, together with Putin and XI, staged in a parade. Second, the Republican would also be criticized in terms of domestic politics to be instrumentalized by China. And thirdly, the US President would probably only agree if he can be sure that results are also achieved. That would not fit Putin’s strategy that apparently still wants to continue his war.

Ultimately, many hurdles of a trip to China stand in the way on September 3. One thing is clear: if it really came about, the political pressure on everyone involved would be immense.