Trump Calls on China to Honor U.S. Sacrifice in World War II, Extends Sharp Message to Xi, Putin, and Kim
Washington, D.C., September 3, 2025 — U.S. President Donald J. Trump issued a pointed message ahead of commemorations in China, questioning whether President Xi Jinping would acknowledge the role played by the United States in helping China resist foreign invasion during World War II.
In a statement released Tuesday, Trump highlighted the “massive amount of support and blood” given by American forces in the 1940s, noting that “many Americans died in China’s quest for Victory and Glory.” He called on Beijing to honor that sacrifice, stressing that the bravery and lives lost by U.S. soldiers must be remembered during China’s upcoming celebrations.
“May President Xi and the wonderful people of China have a great and lasting day of celebration,” Trump said. However, his remarks carried a sharp undertone, as he concluded by directing “warmest regards” to Russia’s Vladimir Putin and North Korea’s Kim Jong Un — pointedly framing them as adversaries “conspiring against the United States of America.”
The comment underscores Trump’s combative tone in international relations, even as his administration navigates strained ties with Beijing, Moscow, and Pyongyang. While Trump extended ceremonial well wishes to China, his message suggested skepticism about whether historical U.S. contributions would be properly recognized.
Historians note that during World War II, the United States provided significant military, logistical, and financial support to China, particularly through the “Flying Tigers” volunteer pilots and later U.S. Army Air Forces missions, which helped repel Japanese forces. Tens of thousands of American servicemen operated in China, with many losing their lives in the conflict.
The timing of Trump’s statement is notable, as China prepares for high-profile remembrance events. Whether President Xi will publicly acknowledge America’s role remains to be seen.
For now, Trump’s remarks have added an extra layer of tension — combining historical remembrance with a present-day warning to Beijing and its allies in Moscow and Pyongyang.
