Thucydides trap: Did Trump just get diplomatically humiliated by Xi Jinping in Beijing?

Chinese President Xi Jinping’s warning about the “Thucydides Trap” during his high-stakes meeting with Donald Trump in Beijing has sparked major global debate. While Trump praised U.S.-China ties, Xi appeared to caution against a future conflict between rising and dominant powers, especially over Taiwan. The ancient geopolitical theory, revived in modern times to describe U.S.-China rivalry, warns how great power competition can spiral into war if mishandled. Did Trump underestimate Xi’s message? From Taiwan tensions to fears of a wider global confrontation, this summit has put the spotlight firmly back on the dangerous balancing act between Washington and Beijing.