Trump denies offering US weapons to China, contradicts ambassador’s account

President Donald Trump on Monday denied ever asking Chinese President Xi Jinping if he wanted to purchase American weapons, a claim that contradicts US Ambassador to China David Perdue. According to a news agency, Perdue had stated on Sunday that Trump had inquired of Xi whether he would be interested in buying US weapons during a conversation. Trump appeared puzzled when questioned about these remarks, seemingly suggesting the ambassador might have been referring to Taiwan rather than the mainland.

The president's comments came as the administration attempted to distance itself from a statement that could fundamentally alter longstanding US policy towards China. When asked if he had ever proposed such an offer to China, Trump responded, "You mean to Taiwan?" and added, "I never heard of that one. I'm going to have to ask him." He also suggested that China might be interested in acquiring superior US equipment and mentioned the possibility that the ambassador could have been talking about Taiwan.

Perdue had made the original claim during an interview on Fox News Sunday, discussing US arms sales to Taiwan. He claimed that Trump had asked Xi if he would like to buy some weapons at some point, but did not specify what weapons were discussed or when the conversation took place. The State Department quickly clarified the US position on Monday, stating that US law prohibits arms sales to China and that there is no offer or plan to sell arms to the country.

The situation is further complicated by the ongoing US arms sales to Taiwan, which Beijing opposes. Perdue defended Trump's approach to Taiwan, stating that the president is as strong on the issue as ever and has sold Taiwan plenty of weapons. China, however, has repeatedly pressed Washington to stop transferring weapons to Taiwan.

During Xi's recent visit to Washington, Chinese state media quoted him as urging Trump to oppose Taiwan independence. China's foreign ministry did not confirm Perdue's account, stating that Beijing always strengthens its defense capabilities according to its needs and remains committed to maintaining world peace and stability.