Xi and Trump Hold Phone Conversation Amid Renewed US-China Trade Tensions

On June 5, 2025, Chinese President Xi Jinping and U.S. President Donald Trump engaged in a phone conversation at Trump’s request, as reported by China’s state-run news agency Xinhua. The call occurred against the backdrop of escalating trade disputes between the two nations, particularly concerning critical minerals. In May, both countries had agreed to a 90-day truce to reduce some of the high tariffs imposed since Trump’s return to office in January. However, tensions have resurfaced, with the U.S. accusing China of violating the agreement by suspending exports of essential minerals, and China criticizing U.S. actions such as imposing restrictions on chip design software and revoking student visas. The White House has not yet commented on the details of the conversation.