As economic pressures rise, China is weighing the exemption of certain U.S. goods from tariffs while maintaining a firm stance that there are no ongoing trade talks with the Trump administration. In a series of exchanges, China has rejected suggestions of active negotiations, demanding a total rollback of unilateral tariffs before any discussions can occur. Amidst conflicting messages, Trump insists that discussions are happening, which Beijing has labeled as unfounded claims. The atmosphere remains tense, with China warning other nations against colluding with the U.S. and threatening retaliation against those who follow U.S. directives in the trade war. Both sides continue to send mixed signals, complicating any potential path forward.