“The Tango” and “The Jerk”: Direct Talks in Washington

[T]he Middle East remains a structural component of the global order that Washington seeks to lead.

The question Trump faces in Beijing will no longer be “whether he can strike a deal,” but rather, “what will he give up to get one.”

[A]s great as the burden on Trump's shoulders is, so, too, is the difficulty of predicting his moves.

Trump appeared more focused on admiring China’s grand ballroom designs and expressing interest in building a similar one in the United States.

[T]he parties have thrown Taiwan into the fire. Trump will even use security threats against allies or partners as bargaining chips.