US-China Trade Tensions Escalate Again

President Trump has accused China of "totally violating" their recent trade agreement, reigniting tensions between the world's two largest economies just weeks after they reached a temporary truce in Geneva.

THE DEAL AND BREAKDOWN: On May 11, the two countries agreed in Geneva to mutually reduce tariff rates for 90 days, lowering rates to their peak levels. The US suspended its 34% reciprocal tariff but retained a 10% baseline tariff. However, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent described the talks as "a bit stalled" on Thursday.

US ACCUSATIONS: Trump claimed China hadn't properly removed non-tariff barriers as promised, including keeping US companies on blacklists and restricting exports of rare earth magnets crucial for cars, aircraft, and semiconductors. White House officials expressed anger over Beijing's slow pace of issuing promised export licenses.

CHINA'S RESPONSE: Beijing didn't directly address the specific accusations but urged the US to "cease discriminatory restrictions against China" and criticized US semiconductor export controls that were expanded this week.

LEGAL SETBACK: Trump's tariff strategy suffered a major blow when the US Court of International Trade ruled his broad global tariffs were invalid because he exceeded his authority, though the White House has appealed.

CURRENT STATUS: Trade talks continue with other nations, including Japan, while both sides maintain their positions. Trump expressed confidence that a call with Chinese President Xi Jinping could ease tensions, despite the harsh rhetoric.