President Donald Trump gave a conflicting assessment of his China tariffs, first calling them “not sustainable” but then immediately suggesting “it could stand.” This ambiguity comes just two weeks before a scheduled meeting with President Xi Jinping.
“It’s not sustainable,” Trump said clearly, before adding, “But that’s what the number is, it’s probably not, you know, it could stand.” He maintained that China “forced” him into this position.
The president confirmed the meeting with Xi is on, and he expressed hope for a resolution. “I think we’re going to be fine with China,” he said, citing his “great” personal relationship with the Chinese leader.
However, a truce that has paused the trade war is set to expire on November 10. This deadline adds urgency to the talks, which follow a week where Trump threatened 100% tariffs and floated canceling the meeting.
Trump continues to demand a “fair deal” and justifies the tariffs as essential leverage. “If we didn’t have tariffs, we would be exposed as being a nothing,” he stated.
Trump Admits Tariffs ‘Not Sustainable,’ But ‘It Could Stand’
