Donald Trump has recently made notable comments regarding China and trade during a media call with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese at the White House. This marks a shift in his previously mixed messages about tariffs and military threats from China.

During the meeting, Trump expressed confidence in the AUKUS alliance, stating, "Yeah I do, I think it is [a deterrent], but I don't think we're going to need it. I think we'll be just fine with China. China doesn't want to do that." He added, "I don't see that at all with President Xi. I think we're going to get along very well as it pertains to Taiwan and others. That doesn't mean it's not the apple of his eye — cause probably it is — but I don't see anything happening. We have a very good trade relationship."

Trump emphasized the military strength of the United States, asserting, "First of all, the United States is the strongest military power by far, and it's not even close. We have the best equipment, we have the best of everything, nobody's going to mess with that." He reiterated his belief that the U.S. would maintain a strong trade deal with China despite ongoing tensions.

These remarks have sparked discussions about the current state of U.S.-China relations, particularly regarding Taiwan. While many analysts question Trump's assessment of military capabilities, his comments suggest a reluctance for the U.S. to engage in conflict over Taiwan. Former Australian Prime Minister Paul Keating described Trump as a "peacenik" in a recent interview, noting his philosophical commitment to peace.

Keating predicted that Trump would continue to advocate for peace, especially following his initial successes in the Middle East. Trump's rhetoric may also be a strategic move ahead of his upcoming trip to Southeast Asia, where he is scheduled to attend the ASEAN meeting in Kuala Lumpur, followed by a visit to Tokyo and the APEC meeting in Korea.

This week is poised to be significant for regional dynamics as Trump shifts his focus to issues pertinent to Australia and the broader Asia-Pacific region. His comments on AUKUS and China signal a new chapter in the ongoing dialogue about security and trade in the area.