President Trump Prepares for “War” with China

President Donald Trump is turning up the heat on China, warning that the United States must be ready for economic “war” and pushing new tariffs as part of a bold strategy to bring manufacturing back home — even if it rattles Wall Street.

“We’re going to have our drugs made in the United States,” Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One on Sunday. “In case of war, in case of whatever, we’re not relying on China and various other countries. That’s not a good idea.”

The president’s remarks come as part of a broader effort to decouple key industries — including pharmaceuticals, semiconductors, and defense-related goods — from Chinese control. And while critics cry foul over the risk of a recession, Trump and his allies argue the risk of not acting is even greater.

China, which until recently produced 99% of the world’s heavy rare earth metals and 90% of its high-powered rare earth magnets, responded by tightening export restrictions on materials critical for the U.S. tech, auto, and aerospace sectors. The move has been described by some experts as a “geopolitical chokehold.”

“These materials are essential to our economy,” said White House economic adviser Kevin Hassett. “It’s concerning. We’re actively working to secure alternative sources for small businesses and manufacturers.”

Beijing’s decision could bring U.S. auto manufacturing to a crawl. Rare earth magnets are key to electric motors — meaning American jobs could be caught in the crosshairs.

Speaking from Vietnam on a regional charm offensive, Chinese President Xi Jinping issued a not-so-subtle rebuke of Trump’s tariff war.

“There are no winners in a trade war,” Xi declared in an op-ed published across Chinese and Vietnamese state media. “Protectionism will lead nowhere.”

Xi’s warnings come as China seeks to strengthen economic alliances in Southeast Asia and shield itself from U.S. pressure.

Despite China’s warnings and Wall Street’s jitters, Trump is charging forward. He announced Sunday that semiconductor tariffs are “coming in the very near future.” Consumer electronics like iPhones and tablets might be spared — for now.

“You have to show a certain flexibility,” Trump said. “Nobody should be so rigid.”

Still, flexibility doesn’t mean surrender. Trump has maintained a 145% import tax on Chinese goods, while putting a 90-day pause on other categories to allow businesses to adjust.

“We’re done being played for suckers,” a senior White House official said on background. “China’s strategy has been to hollow out our manufacturing base. President Trump is reversing that — even if it upsets some CEOs.”

But big business is getting rattled. A recent survey from Chief Executive magazine found 62% of CEOs expect a recession or economic downturn within six months — a sharp jump from 48% in March.

Ray Dalio, founder of Bridgewater Associates, went even further.

“We’re very close to a recession,” Dalio said on NBC’s Meet the Press. “And I’m worried about something worse if this isn’t handled well.”

Despite the concerns, Trump’s supporters say he’s finally doing what others have only talked about — defending American workers and preparing for the next global showdown.

“This isn’t just about economics,” one GOP strategist said. “It’s about national security. It’s about whether we control our future — or hand it to Beijing.”

With more tariffs likely on the way and China digging in, the trade war is entering a new phase — one that could define the global order for years to come.