Trump needs China’s help fixing the global oil crisis. It’s unlikely to play along
Trump Needs China’s Help Fixing the Global Oil Crisis. It’s Unlikely to Play Along
With just two weeks left until a pivotal US-China discussion in Beijing, President Donald Trump has introduced a fresh demand: securing the Strait of Hormuz. This move places China in a precarious position, as it appears to have little motivation to support the request. The Iranian blockade of the main shipping route has disrupted 20% of global oil flow, causing market volatility and concerns about supply shortages that could destabilize the world economy.
Trump is urging allies such as France, Japan, and Britain to collaborate on safeguarding the strait. To gain China’s backing, he has escalated diplomatic pressure, asking whether the nation will assist before his meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping. Failure to respond might lead to the postponement of the summit. “Those who benefit from the strait should help prevent any disruption,” he remarked in a Financial Times interview. “China should contribute as well.”
The Global Oil Crisis
Iran’s closure of the vital waterway has amplified the energy crisis, prompting Trump to seek international cooperation. However, China’s strategic resilience makes it less inclined to take part in this effort. Over recent years, Beijing has fortified its energy security through stockpiling oil reserves, diversifying import sources, and investing heavily in renewable energy sectors like wind and solar power.
China’s Strategic Position
Analysts suggest China’s strong economic footing allows it to withstand prolonged energy disruptions. Bert Hofman, an expert from the National University of Singapore, noted that the nation “would have room to maneuver” given its stable position. Meanwhile, the conflict has overshadowed the original summit agenda, as tensions over Iran’s infrastructure attacks intensify.
Domestic and International Reactions
Inside China, the war has sparked a sense of relief. Henry Huiyao Wang, head of a Beijing-based think tank, remarked that Trump is “lonely in the world” and “disturbed the global order.” While state media has urged collaboration, the nationalist Global Times criticized the idea of sending US warships to the strait, questioning if it’s about shared responsibility or shared risk.
At a press briefing, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian emphasized the importance of the upcoming meeting but offered no clear commitment to Trump’s request. The potential delay of the summit coincides with ongoing trade talks in Paris, where economic officials are discussing agreements on agriculture and critical minerals. These discussions come amid reduced US leverage after the Supreme Court ruled against Trump’s unilateral tariff actions.
China’s Role in the Conflict
China, a key partner of Iran and its largest oil buyer, has less incentive to align with Trump’s demands. While condemning attacks on Iran, Beijing has also criticized Iranian strikes on neighboring countries like Saudi Arabia. This balanced approach reflects its strategic interests in maintaining stability without fully committing to either side.
Trump’s threats to delay talks highlight his growing reliance on China, despite the nation’s cautious stance. As fuel prices rise domestically, the president’s influence over Beijing is tested. Meanwhile, NATO allies remain divided, with Japan and Australia declining to send warships to the strait, further complicating the situation.
“The US needs China more than China needs the US,” Wang stated, underscoring the shift in diplomatic dynamics.
