Trump confirms China trip after 'very good' call with Xi
US President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping spoke by phone for the first time since the start of the trade war. The call, focused on trade, was described by Trump as “very positive.”
Both leaders exchanged invitations for official visits, though only China’s invitation to Trump was confirmed by Beijing, BBC reported.
Discussions come after a trade agreement stalled, with China blaming new US tech restrictions and the US accusing China of not resuming important mineral exports.
Trump defended the new Chinese student visa requirements. In order to prevent conflict, Xi cautioned the United States to handle Taiwan carefully, as stated by BBC.
Despite tensions, both sides signaled a willingness to keep talks open.
US vetoes UN resolution demanding Gaza ceasefire and aid access
The United States vetoed a UN Security Council resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and unrestricted humanitarian aid access. The draft, backed by 14 of 15 members, also demanded the unconditional release of hostages held by Hamas, according to Xinhua.
The US veto drew sharp criticism from other members. China accused Washington of undermining peace efforts. The UK slammed Israel's aid limitations and demanded impartial inquiries into civilian deaths. Algeria and Pakistan viewed the veto as a failure of international duty and a setback to global consensus.
The vote highlights growing frustration over the US’s repeated vetoes on Gaza-related resolutions. Xinhua reported.
Meloni and Macron meet in Rome to ease tensions
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni met French President Emmanuel Macron in Rome on Tuesday for talks aimed at easing tensions between the two countries.
The discussions centered on trade, EU relations, and connections with the United States. Meloni wants deeper ties with US President Donald Trump, whereas Macron prefers a more independent EU posture. Both support Ukraine, but have different intentions for peacekeeping troops, according to Reuters.
No statement followed the meeting, though Italy’s foreign minister called the visit a positive step.
Trump open to peace summit with Zelensky and Putin, says White House
The White House has announced that President Donald Trump is willing to attend an anticipated peace summit in Turkey alongside Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said, “My desire is to bring Putin and Zelensky together in Istanbul or Ankara. Also to invite Trump to this meeting as well.” He added that steps will be taken after ongoing talks, Firstpost reported.
Meanwhile, Ukrainian and Russian officials convened in Istanbul for the second round of negotiations. There was no substantial breakthrough recorded, although both sides agreed to swap captives and the corpses of fallen soldiers.
