Trump needs China’s help fixing the global oil crisis. It’s unlikely to play along
Trump’s Demand for China’s Role in Resolving the Global Oil Crisis Sparks Doubt
Just days ahead of President Donald Trump’s high-stakes negotiations with Chinese leader Xi Jinping in Beijing, he has introduced a fresh condition: securing the Strait of Hormuz. This move comes as Iran’s blockade of the vital waterway has disrupted nearly 20% of global oil shipments, causing prices to surge and raising alarms about energy shortages that could destabilize the world economy. Trump’s request highlights his growing reliance on China’s strategic support amid escalating tensions.
A Global Crisis with Local Implications
The Iranian action has created a ripple effect across international markets, prompting Trump to rally allies like France, Japan, and Britain to collaborate on safeguarding the strait. Yet, his appeal to China faces skepticism, as Beijing has little motivation to act. Analysts note that China’s economic resilience, bolstered by stockpiled reserves and investments in renewable energy, allows it to weather prolonged disruptions without significant strain.
During a Sunday interview with the Financial Times, Trump emphasized the need for China’s cooperation, hinting at possible postponement of the summit if no response is forthcoming. “Those who benefit from the strait’s stability should contribute to its protection,” he stated, suggesting China’s involvement is essential. However, the logic of his request is contested—China would be risking its own military resources in a conflict initiated by the U.S. against a key ally.
“Given their strategic security, China might choose to wait,” remarked Bert Hofman, a scholar at the National University of Singapore’s East Asian Institute. “They have room to maneuver without immediate pressure.”
Domestic Reactions and Diplomatic Tensions
Within China, the ongoing war in the Persian Gulf has fueled a mix of amusement and scrutiny. Henry Huiyao Wang, president of the Center for China and Globalization, noted the global isolation of Trump, citing domestic discontent over rising fuel costs. Meanwhile, China’s state media urged unity with the U.S. to tackle global challenges, while the nationalist Global Times questioned the intent behind Trump’s demands. “Is this about shared responsibility or shifting the burden of a war Washington can’t conclude?” the op-ed asked.
Chinese officials have maintained a balanced stance, condemning Iran’s attacks while also criticizing strikes on neighboring nations like Saudi Arabia. This neutrality positions Beijing to avoid direct entanglement in the conflict, even as it remains a major buyer of Iranian oil. Trump’s proposal to delay the summit underscores his dwindling leverage after the Supreme Court recently rebuked his unilateral tariff policies, weakening his economic bargaining power with China.
Strategic Leverage and Unanswered Questions
Despite the urgency, China’s Foreign Ministry has yet to commit to Trump’s call. Spokesperson Lin Jian highlighted the importance of the upcoming meeting, stating, “Head-of-state diplomacy is crucial for guiding China-U.S. relations.” The talks in Paris, however, have focused on agricultural and mineral trade deals, leaving Trump to seek alternative measures to pressure Beijing.
With NATO members hesitant to deploy warships and U.S. allies like Japan and Australia declining to participate, Trump’s challenge to China stands out. As the crisis deepens, the question remains: will China’s strategic autonomy override its diplomatic ties with the U.S.?
