On November 12, 2024, Bloomberg reported that President-elect Donald Trump has selected a new National Security Advisor who identifies China as the primary threat to U.S. interests. This choice aligns with Trump’s broader strategy of adopting a more confrontational stance toward China.
In addition, Trump has been assembling a team known for their hardline positions on China. Notably, Senator Marco Rubio has been named Secretary of State, and Representative Mike Waltz has been chosen for a key defense role. Both figures are unapologetically hostile toward China, frequently targeting its policies on issues such as Xinjiang and Taiwan, areas where they have actively pushed for U.S. intervention.
Furthermore, John Ratcliffe has been named CIA Director, further reinforcing this trajectory. Ratcliffe is expected to continue prioritizing China as a focal point for U.S. intelligence operations, consistent with the administration’s overarching strategy.
These appointments indicate a deliberate move toward a more assertive and potentially antagonistic U.S. approach to China, heightening the risk of escalating tensions between the two nations.
On Chinese social media, the announcement of this hawkish lineup has sparked widespread concern. Many have expressed fears of intensifying conflict, even the heightened possibility of wars, describing the mood as one of deep unease—pitch dark and profoundly pessimistic. Even my ESL student can see this and becomes worried for China.
There is an ironic twist, however: many Chinese had previously viewed Trump as the more peaceful option, believing he would focus on domestic issues like tariffs rather than foreign intervention. Little had they anticipated such a hostile buildup.
This situation calls to mind a famous line from a poem by Mao Zedong: "敌军围困万千重，我自岿然不动" (Dí jūn wéi kùn wàn qiān chóng, wǒ zì kuī rán bú dòng), which means: "Surrounded by enemy troops in countless layers, we stand firm, unwavering." Originally written during the Long March, these words encapsulate a spirit of resilience that echoes in China’s attitude today—one of strategic calm and steadfast resolve amid extreme external pressures and provocations.
Mao’s words resonate with both historical strength and modern diplomatic wisdom. They remind us that true power is not found in confrontation and aggression but in resilience, resolve, and strategic patience. In the face of mounting challenges, steadfastness remains the most reliable path to long-term peace, stability, and enduring strength.