WASHINGTON—President Donald Trump’s recent remarks targeting China and its allies mark a noticeable shift in tone. After months of avoiding direct criticism of Chinese Communist Party leader Xi Jinping, Trump is no longer mincing his words.
The change has raised questions about whether Trump is signaling a new approach to managing America’s top rival.
On Sept. 5, Trump took aim at India and Russia in a Truth Social post, expressing frustration over their close alignment with Beijing.
“Looks like we’ve lost India and Russia to deepest, darkest, China,” Trump said. “May they have a long and prosperous future together! President Donald J. Trump.”...