Trump says Xi knows invasion of Taiwan would backfire, but won’t confirm U.S. defense pledge.

Trump said in a CBS interview that Chinese President Xi Jinping understands the consequences of invading Taiwan, though he did not confirm U.S. military intervention. Trump stated Taiwan was not discussed during their first in-person meeting in six years, held in South Korea, and declined to elaborate on U.S. defense commitments, saying, “You’ll find out if it happens.” He claimed Xi and his inner circle have openly indicated they would not act while Trump is president due to anticipated repercussions. The U.S. maintains its “One China” policy while continuing to supply defensive arms to Taiwan. The leaders focused their summit on reducing trade tensions rather than addressing Taiwan directly.