United States President Donald Trump might postpone his visit to China, originally planned for the end of March, while pressuring Beijing to help reopen the Strait of Hormuz, reports the Financial Times. Trump highlighted China’s heavy reliance on Middle Eastern oil, saying it “ought to help” ensure the passage of oil tankers. “We may delay,” he said, adding that Washington seeks clarity from Beijing before the trip.

Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump described China as “an interesting case study” and noted uncertainty about whether Beijing would cooperate: “Maybe they will, maybe they won’t.”

Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent clarified that any delay would be due to logistics and ongoing war coordination rather than disagreements with China. He said Trump wants to remain in Washington to oversee operations and that traveling abroad “may not be optimal” at this time. Bessent made the remarks from Paris, where he met Chinese Vice-Premier He Lifeng for trade discussions ahead of the potential visit.

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China’s response has been measured. A foreign ministry spokesperson, Lin Jian, said communication between the two nations continues and emphasized the strategic importance of head-of-state diplomacy in China-U.S. relations.

Trump has also warned NATO allies of a “very bad future” if they do not assist in reopening the Strait. Germany, the U.K., and Greece have stated they will not engage militarily, with Britain emphasizing limited involvement focused on reopening the Strait without entering the broader conflict.

Iran’s closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for over 20% of global oil trade, has caused oil prices to spike to $120 per barrel before stabilizing. Analysts warn that prolonged closure could have severe global economic consequences.

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