Summary
Chinese President Xi Jinping is unlikely to attend President-elect Donald Trump’s January 20 inauguration, citing risks and protocol concerns, experts say.
Trump extended the invitation, but analysts argue Xi would avoid being perceived as a subordinate guest and risks linked to potential U.S. policy shifts, including tariffs or Taiwan diplomacy.
Trump’s return is expected to escalate U.S.-China tensions, with Beijing adopting a cautious stance amid his selection of China hawks for key positions.
Experts predict an eventual Trump-Xi meeting but warn of a continued mix of confrontation and engagement.
Plus, there’s the likelihood he’d have to stand near Trump at some point.
Downwind too.