Part 13/15:
Despite Xi being the top foreign guest at the summit, his regime's reduced influence was palpable, especially given the short and tense Japan-China meeting and the security concerns surrounding Xi’s travel arrangements, including rumors about body doubles and suspicious hotel choices.
Trump’s resurgence in Asia—marked by significant deals, strengthened alliances, and strategic initiatives—has sparked concern in Beijing. The rapid shifts indicate that the Indo-Pacific is moving away from Beijing’s orbit, with countries asserting greater independence and adopting policies that challenge China’s regional ambitions.