Trump says Xi assured him China won’t invade Taiwan during his presidency

The remarks came ahead of Trump’s planned talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin over Moscow’s invasion of Ukraine.

According to Reuters, the Chinese embassy in Washington did not immediately respond to a request for comment following Trump’s statements.

The two leaders held their first confirmed call of Trump’s second term in June, and Trump had earlier said in April that Xi had reached out to him by phone, though he did not specify the timing of that call.

China considers Taiwan a breakaway province and has repeatedly vowed to achieve “reunification” with the island, by force if necessary. Taiwan, a self-governing democracy, rejects Beijing’s sovereignty claims.

China has increased its military presence around Taiwan, with frequent warship and aircraft maneuvers, and regular violations of Taiwan’s air defense zone. US officials have previously warned that China could quickly shift to a military blockade or assault if it chose.

Although Washington is Taiwan’s main security partner and arms supplier, the United States, like most countries, does not maintain formal diplomatic ties with Taipei.

(With inputs from Reuters)