The administration of Donald Trump is considering a potential “rapprochement with Russia” as a tool to counter China and reshape the global balance of power.
Politico reported this, citing an anonymous US administration official.
Betting on Russia Against China
According to the official, Washington is looking for ways to move closer to Russia in order to create a more favorable balance of power in its rivalry with China.
The idea suggests that ending the war against Ukraine, supporting Russia’s economic recovery, and potentially attracting US investment could gradually distance Moscow from Beijing.
The report notes that US efforts to push for a ceasefire in Ukraine partly stem from a desire to reduce China’s influence. Washington has already engaged in negotiations to end the war, viewing them as part of a broader geopolitical strategy.
Additional Pressure on China’s Partners
The Trump administration’s policy also includes steps aimed at weakening China’s global influence. These include pressure on the governments of Venezuela and Cuba, as well as signals directed at Panama and Peru.
The situation around Iran also plays a role. Operations targeting Iran have affected oil supplies to China. In 2025, Xi Jinping sourced more than 13% of China’s oil imports from Iran.
Trump had planned to visit China in late March and hold talks with Xi on extending a trade truce. He described the trip as “the biggest show in China’s history.” However, he later postponed the meeting by five to six weeks.
Factors behind the delay included a Supreme Court of the United States decision on tariffs, delays in operations involving Iran, and tensions with European partners.
Context
Donald Trump has recently shown less interest in negotiations to end Russia’s war against Ukraine, focusing instead on the confrontation with Iran.
As a result, trilateral talks between Ukraine, Russia, and the United States now risk collapsing. The last round took place in Geneva in mid-February, while the next meeting in Abu Dhabi has been postponed indefinitely due to military actions involving Iran.
Earlier, The Ukrainian Review reported that Ukraine’s Defense Forces disrupted a planned Russian strategic offensive in March 2026.
