President Donald Trump attempted to lower the temperature in the U.S.-China trade war as both sides wrangle over tariffs and export controls.

In an interview with Fox News’ Sunday Morning Futures , he also mixed in some flattery for Chinese President Xi Jinping while still airing some grievances.

“I’m not looking to destroy China,” Trump said.

Earlier this month, he announced an additional 100% tariff and software restrictions on China, which has a stranglehold on the world’s supply of rare earths and imposed tighter export controls that threaten a wide range of industries.

“Now they’ve forced me to charge them what is the equivalent of 155 to 157%,” Trump told Fox .

His tone contrasts with more ominous rhetoric in August, when he said the U.S. holds the upper hand versus Ch

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