President Trump Embarks on Asia Tour Amid Trade Tensions and Peace Efforts

"...betting that an around-the-world journey will help him untangle big issues that he can't afford to get wrong..."

"...A misstep could send shock waves through American industries that have already been rattled by Trump's aggressive tariffs, government layoffs and political brinkmanship..."

"...Trump's strategy of improvisation has had both hits and misses since he returned to office in January..."

"...There's been some mystery around Trump's trip, with no official announcements from the White House about much of his itinerary..."

"...With just days to go before Trump leaves, there's an unusual level of ambiguity even for a president who loves to keep people guessing about his next move..."

"...The whole trip has seemed so uncertain from the beginning..."

"...Everyone is waiting to see where he's going to come down on all of this..."

"...Others say Trump's approach is paying off..."

"...The message from them has been 'let's sit down, talk about relevant details to make a deal'..."

"...The climax of the president's journey will likely be South Korea..."

"...Tensions have increased in recent weeks, particularly with China's announcement of restrictions on exports of rare earth minerals..."

"...Trump threatened to retaliate with tariffs so high that he admits they would be unsustainable..."

"...There are three potential outcomes from Trump's meeting with Xi — 'deal, no deal or disaster'..."

"...The Chinese feel they have President Trump's number..."

"...They feel that if they push on this, he'll fold..."

"...Another open question will be Trump's trade negotiations with South Korea, which is facing U.S. tariffs that could undermine its auto industry..."

"...There are some fundamental differences about this fund that need to be sorted out..."

"...There are so many balls in the air..."