Xi tells Trump conflict inevitable, only conduct in question

Chinese President Xi Jinping reportedly told former US President Trump that a conflict between the two powers is inevitable, with only the manner of its conduct open to discussion. The remark, relayed via FAZ, signals a hardening of Chinese rhetoric toward the US and suggests Beijing views strategic rivalry as structural rather than negotiable. The context and exact wording remain unverified, and it is unclear whether this reflects official policy or personal diplomacy.