President Donald Trump has said he hopes China can play a role in helping to end the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, now entering its fourth year. His comments came as Russian President Vladimir Putin and his top military leadership claimed to have tested a nuclear-powered cruise missile — a move Trump openly criticized.
Trump stated that the United States tests missiles frequently, but said it was inappropriate for Putin to boast about such tests instead of working to resolve the war. Trump emphasized his priority is to end the conflict rather than escalate tensions. Recently, President Putin tested a new nuclear missile named Burevestnik
National security expert Dan Hoffman is highlighting the deepening strategic alignment between Russia and China. He explained that both countries operate under a “no limits” strategic partnership that includes three dimensions — authoritarian governance alignment, economic interdependence, and a joint effort to limit U.S. global influence. He said Russia is heavily dependent on Chinese dual-use technology to sustain its military operations in Ukraine, while exporting hydrocarbons to China in return.
Hoffman believes Trump is not expecting China to solve the war actively, but is strategically exposing Beijing’s direct support to Russia. He noted this exposure helps the United States challenge China’s narrative and puts pressure ahead of major trade negotiations. He added this could also influence Europe, which has strong trade ties with China, to reassess its strategy and recognize Beijing’s role in prolonging the war.
Meanwhile, live footage showed President Trump arriving in Japan to be greeted by the Emperor. Hoffman called the moment a powerful display of American presidential influence, especially ahead of Trump’s expected meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping in the coming days. He stressed Japan’s importance as a critical U.S. ally in the Indo-Pacific, both economically and in countering Chinese aggression in the region.
On the Russian missile test, Hoffman confirmed U.S. intelligence is taking it seriously. He said any nuclear-powered missile test carries inherent risks of catastrophic fallout due to potential technical failures. He described it as part of Moscow’s effort to project military strength and intimidate the West.
Discussing the diplomatic complexity of needing China — the United States’ biggest adversary — to influence Russia — another rival power — Hoffman said the administration understands China is unlikely to reverse support for Moscow. However, publicly exposing Beijing’s involvement helps widen strategic fractures, particularly between China and Europe.
Japan, heavily reliant on U.S. security guarantees due to China’s military rise, is expected to extend the highest ceremonial honors to Trump during his visit
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