Trump Begins High-Stakes Asia Tour Amid Trade Talks, Regional Peace Efforts

President Donald Trump has embarked on a high-stakes Asia trip, his longest overseas journey this term, with stops in Malaysia, Japan, and South Korea aimed at securing major trade deals, peace initiatives, and investment commitments. Central to the trip is a critical meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping to attempt deescalating the ongoing trade war, with Trump expressing optimism about achieving a "really fair and really great trade deal." The trip also involves efforts to solidify peace between Cambodia and Thailand, and secure investment pledges from South Korea and Japan amid regional tensions and political uncertainties. Despite the domestic turmoil caused by the U.S. government shutdown, Trump continues to pursue his foreign policy agenda, drawing criticism from some Democrats who question the timing. Former White House strategist Steve Bannon called the trip one of the riskiest for a U.S. president, highlighting China's economic warfare declaration and the complex geopolitical dynamics involved. Trump aims to leverage this trip to advance peace, security, and economic interests in the Indo-Pacific region while managing multiple diplomatic challenges.