Message to Trump: Xi Jinping Tells SCO Summit to Oppose Bullying and Cold War Mentality Amid US-China Tensions

Chinese President Xi Jinping issued a pointed message at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit 2025 in Tianjin, China. He urged member states to reject “bullying behaviour” and “cold war mentality.” The comments came as tensions grow between the United States under President Donald Trump and China.

Xi addressed leaders including Russian President Vladimir Putin and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He called for unity, fairness, and justice in global affairs. According to Reuters, the Chinese leader said countries must “stand against camp confrontation and bullying practices.”

Xi’s Message to Trump and SCO Leaders

Xi Jinping spoke during the opening of the two-day SCO Summit. His words were widely seen as directed at U.S. policies under Trump.

The U.S. and China have faced intense trade disputes in recent years. Tariffs between the two nations at times crossed the 100 percent mark. While some agreements were signed, deep mistrust remains.

Trump has also extended tariffs to India, placing a 50 percent duty on Russian oil imports handled by New Delhi. This decision drew criticism from Moscow and Beijing, who described it as bullying.

Xi stressed that SCO members should maintain the “Shanghai spirit.” He said cooperation and trust must guide the bloc. He also praised recent signs of warming ties between India and China.

Impact on U.S., China, India, and Russia

Trump’s tariff moves have angered several partners. China and Russia view them as unfair restrictions. India also faces direct costs as it continues to trade energy with Moscow.

Xi’s speech showed Beijing’s push to strengthen regional partnerships. By urging India and Russia to stand together, China aims to balance U.S. influence in Asia.

The SCO, which includes China, India, Russia, Pakistan, Iran, and Central Asian states, represents nearly half the world’s population. With expanding observer states, the group’s voice is growing stronger.

Xi said it was vital for the “elephant and dragon” — India and China — to work together. This signals Beijing’s intent to stabilize relations with New Delhi while resisting Washington’s pressure.

Global Response and Broader Meaning

Observers say Xi’s remarks highlight a clear divide. On one side, the U.S. under Trump pushes for aggressive trade and security policies. On the other, China seeks allies to push back against what it calls bullying.

The broader question is whether countries like India will side closer with Washington or lean toward Beijing and Moscow. India’s balancing act remains central in this shifting world order.

Trump, meanwhile, continues to demand a ceasefire in Ukraine from Russia. He has held direct talks with Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. Still, Xi’s message suggests China and Russia are unlikely to soften under pressure.

Xi’s message to Trump at the SCO Summit signals Beijing’s intent to rally nations against U.S. pressure. It underscores a deepening divide in global politics.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What did Xi Jinping say to Trump at the SCO Summit?

Xi Jinping did not name Trump directly. But he urged countries to oppose bullying, cold war mentality, and camp confrontation. His message was seen as directed at U.S. policies.

Q2: Why did Xi call out bullying behaviour?

China views U.S. tariffs and restrictions as unfair and aggressive. Xi wants SCO nations to unite against such measures.

Q3: How has Trump responded to India’s oil trade with Russia?

Trump imposed 50 percent tariffs on India’s purchase of Russian oil. This angered both Russia and China, who called it bullying.

Q4: What role does India play in this conflict?

India is caught in the middle. It trades with Russia but also values ties with the U.S. Its choices may shape the balance of power.

Q5: What is the SCO Summit?

The SCO is a bloc of Asian nations including China, India, Russia, and others. It focuses on security, trade, and cooperation. The 2025 summit was held in Tianjin, China.