What Is Trump’s China Policy?

Foreign Policy

by Ravi Agrawal

February 20, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

The Trump administration's China policy has been characterized by ambiguity and contradiction, according to Kurt Campbell, who ran Asia policy for the Biden administration. While Trump's approach often appears contradictory—ranging from seeking commercial deals to prioritizing military build-ups—it is intentionally designed to keep both China and domestic stakeholders guessing about his ultimate goals. This strategy, as Campbell noted, aims to maintain strategic uncertainty in U.S.-China relations, particularly regarding issues like Taiwan, where the United States' commitment to its ally has historically been a key element of regional stability. Campbell highlighted that Trump's administration is unique in its internal dynamics, with a "big tent" approach that includes both pro-business advocates and hardliners. This mix has led to internal conflicts but also reflects Trump's broader strategy of unpredictability. While this ambiguity may keep China off-balance, it has also created uncertainty among U.S. allies in the Indo-Pacific region, who are seeking reassurance about American commitments. Campbell suggested that Trump's approach to strategic ambiguity has taken things to a new level, particularly in the context of potential conflicts between the United States and China. The implications of Trump's China policy are significant for understanding U.S.-China relations under his leadership. His administration's focus on short-term deals, as noted by Campbell, contrasts with the Biden administration's more structured "invest, align, compete" strategy. While Trump has rolled back some of these policies, his approach has raised questions about the long-term direction of U.S. policy toward China. This uncertainty not only affects bilateral relations but also has broader implications for global stability and economic competition. For readers interested in politics and international relations, understanding Trump's China policy is crucial. It highlights the complexities of managing a relationship between two superpowers with vastly different political systems and competing interests. The ambiguity in Trump's approach underscores the challenges of maintaining strategic clarity while balancing domestic priorities and geopolitical realities. As the U.S.-China rivalry continues to evolve, the outcomes of this uncertain strategy will have far-reaching consequences for global security and economic dynamics.

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Originally published on Foreign Policy on 2/20/2026