President Donald Trump this week claimed that talks with China over tariffs were “active.” But when China was asked, they flat-out denied it—and said Trump’s story is as baseless as “trying to catch the wind.”
Beijing publicly dismissed the president’s claims, calling them false and demanding the U.S. cancel all unilateral tariffs. “Any claims about the progress of China-U.S. trade negotiations are groundless as trying to catch the wind and have no factual basis,” said He Yadong, spokesperson for China’s Ministry of Commerce.
The U.S. has slapped tariffs as high as 145% on Chinese goods. China fired back with 125% tariffs on U.S. imports and announced new restrictions, including limits on rare earth mineral exports and legal action against the U.S. at the World Trade Organization.
Trump told reporters the tariffs would come down “substantially,” and insisted talks were underway. But when asked who was actually negotiating, he couldn’t name a single person.
“China is saying it’s fake news that trade talks are happening,” a reporter asked.
“Well, they had a meeting this morning,” Trump replied.
“Who’s they?” the reporter followed up.
“I can’t tell you,” Trump said. “It doesn’t matter who they is.”
He added that he would reveal who “they” are—later.
Despite the back-and-forth, Trump still struck a softer tone on China. But for now, there’s no deal, no real negotiations—and apparently, no names.
Watch the clip below:
Reporter: “[China is] saying it's fake news that trade talks are happening.”
Trump: “Well, they had a meeting this morning.”
Reporter: “Who's they?”
Trump: “I can't tell you. It doesn't matter who they is.” pic.twitter.com/lwXsm06gUl
— The Bulwark (@BulwarkOnline) April 24, 2025
