US President Donald Trump has expressed hope that China will use its influence over Russia to help end the ongoing war in Ukraine, ahead of his scheduled meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping in South Korea this week.
“I’d like China to help us out with Russia,” Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One, adding that he shares a “very good relationship” with Xi and believes the Chinese leader also wants to see the war end.
The remarks come as Trump embarks on a fast-paced Asia tour, where he aims to discuss a range of issues — including trade tensions and the Ukraine conflict. His renewed focus on peace talks follows a stalled ceasefire effort and a failed summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin in August.
Frustration with Moscow and New Sanctions
Trump acknowledged his growing frustration with Russia, saying his discussions with Putin “go nowhere” despite being “good conversations.” Earlier this week, his administration imposed sanctions on Russia’s two largest oil companies — marking the first direct economic measures by the Trump government over the war.
The Kremlin dismissed the sanctions, calling itself “immune,” while analysts warned that their long-term impact remains uncertain.
Beijing’s Influence and Strategic Ties
Trump’s optimism faces skepticism as China remains Russia’s closest ally, continuing oil imports and supplying dual-use materials that could aid Moscow’s war effort — allegations Beijing has denied.
Last month, Putin, Xi, and North Korea’s Kim Jong Un met in Beijing in a display of unity and military strength, underscoring the deepening strategic alignment between the three nations.
Despite that, Trump said he believes Xi could play a “big influence on Putin” and help steer Moscow toward negotiations.
Crisis Deepens in Ukraine
Meanwhile, Russian airstrikes continue to devastate Ukraine. Over the weekend, missile attacks in Kyiv killed several people and caused widespread destruction, according to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who urged allies not to “leave Ukraine alone in the face of such evil.”
In Russia’s Belgorod region, residents near a dam were ordered to evacuate after a Ukrainian strike damaged a local reservoir, raising fears of potential flooding.
Trump’s remarks come amid what analysts describe as his attempt to balance diplomacy and deterrence — seeking Chinese cooperation while keeping pressure on Moscow through sanctions.
