Trump Claims Call with Xi Amid Trade Dispute; China Denies Negotiations

President Donald Trump claimed in a TIME Magazine interview that Chinese President Xi Jinping called him to discuss tariffs amid an ongoing trade dispute, though China has publicly denied any contact or negotiations regarding tariffs. Trump stated that he expects to finalize tariff deals with various countries, including China, in the next three to four weeks, and described the ongoing tariffs as a response to what he considers unfair trade practices. While the US administration has suggested talks with China are progressing, Chinese officials have called on Washington to stop 'misleading the public,' emphasizing that no economic or trade negotiations are currently underway. Despite the tensions, China has reportedly exempted some US imports from its tariffs and is considering further exemptions, potentially as a means to de-escalate trade tensions. Trump also outlined broader international ambitions, including resolving issues related to Russia's war in Ukraine and fostering new diplomatic agreements in the Middle East.