After Donald Trump assumed office as the President of the United States again, his policy actions have attracted considerable attention. Professor Xinbo WU , Director of the Institute of International Studies Fudan University and Vice Dean of the FDDI, visited the United States a month after Trump took office. During his visit, he engaged in discussions with people from various sectors, observed the dynamics of American society, and was invited by Guancha Syndicate to share his views on the political ecology of the U.S., its China policy, and the future of China-U.S. relations.

Professor Wu believes that the U.S. is undergoing a Trump revolution. Trump's governing style and policy measures have exceeded expectations, deepening social divisions in the country. Both the political parties and the public have reacted to Trump's policies in a polarized manner. Since Trump's presidency, the political ecology of the U.S. has shifted from being pluralistic, open, and inclusive to a return to conservatism, non-pluralism, and non-inclusivity. Executive orders have become the primary tool of governance. Relations with China are currently not a priority in Trump's foreign policy; instead, he focuses on the Russia-Ukraine and Gaza conflicts. Trump's China policy centers around trade and economics, with a focus on economic interests. He believes that the economic relationship between China and the U.S. is unequal and seeks to change the status quo. At the same time, in terms of security, he aims to counterbalance China by strengthening military forces in the Western Pacific. While Trump's policy towards China is still taking shape, there is an increase in confrontational sentiment, with ongoing measures in trade, security, and other fields. Professor Wu believes that the confrontation between China and the U.S. has only just begun, and Trump will adopt a pressure first, negotiate later strategy in handling China-U.S. relations. He will first apply pressure to force China to accept demands, and then enter into negotiations

Translated by Trinley Jigme

Full text in Chinese available at: 

https://mp.weixin.qq.com/s/Vxk-CXB8cOf89bEUUOoHOQ