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Trump Issues Ultimatum to Xi Jinping: Help With Hormuz or the Summit Falls Through

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US President Donald Trump signaled a possible postponement of the planned summit with Chinese leader Xi Jinping, while simultaneously seeking Beijing's help in resolving the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz.

Trump stated that he wants to understand China's position on securing this critical maritime route before meeting with Xi. "China depends heavily on the strait for oil imports - approximately 90 percent of its petroleum arrives through this route," he emphasized.

When asked whether China would participate in securing the strait, Trump expressed uncertainty. He suggested there may be "deeper reasons" why Beijing would refuse involvement, pointing to broader strategic considerations.

Trump's demand follows his wider appeal to multiple countries - including France, Japan, South Korea, and the United Kingdom - to join coordinated efforts to restore access through the strait, which handles roughly one-fifth of the global oil supply.

The statements came as US Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent was preparing for diplomatic meetings in Paris with Chinese officials regarding the planned summit in Beijing.