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China's growing influence: Putin visits Beijing after Trump courts Xi

May 18, 2026

Summary

Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to visit Beijing for talks with Xi Jinping, just days after Donald Trump's visit to China. These meetings highlight Beijing's increasing role in a shifting global landscape and its growing economic ties with Russia.

How coverage differs

  • Left: Trump's Taiwan strategy empowers Beijing, undermining US influence Left-leaning outlets frame President Trump's visit to China as a 'Taiwan Gambit' that inadvertently strengthens Beijing's geopolitical position. They highlight how President Trump's actions could undermine U.S. interests and play into China's strategic hands, benefiting China's global standing.
  • Center: Washington's bipartisan shift shapes complex China engagement strategy Center outlets report on the broader implications of President Trump's China trip, noting a bipartisan shift in Washington's approach to Beijing. They also explore strategic analyses, like how Sun Tzu's principles might apply to the Trump-Xi summit.

Coverage by lane

Left

  • Trump’s Taiwan Gambit is Already a Gift to China

Center

  • Trump’s China trip highlights bipartisan shift in Washington’s approach to Beijing
  • How Sun Tzu might have responded to the Trump-Xi summit

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