A quiet calm had settled between the United States and China—until President Donald Trump threw two sharp punches that may upend the fragile peace.
On Wednesday night, the Trump administration announced two major moves: new restrictions on semiconductor technology sales to China and a vow to revoke visas for thousands of Chinese students in the United States.
Beijing, caught off guard, is now bracing for a return to high-stakes tensions.
A Truce Shattered
Just weeks ago, Chinese officials and state media were hailing a deal with Washington to roll back steep tariffs as a “major win.” Trade routes had reopened. Exports picked up. Factories stirred back to life.
But Wednesday’s twin announcements cast a shadow over that optimism—and raised doubts about whether the two countries can reach a lasting agreement before the current 90-day deadline.
First Blow: Chip Software Cut-Off
The first jolt came via a report in the Financial Times. It revealed that US companies had been instructed to stop selling chip design software to China and to any military-related users globally.
A Siemens spokesperson later confirmed to CNN that the US government had informed industry leaders of the new rules last Friday.
These design tools are crucial. Without them, China cannot develop the advanced microchips needed to power smartphones, electric vehicles, and military tech.
Beijing has spent billions trying to build its own chip industry. But it remains heavily dependent on US technology. Now, that lifeline may be at risk.
The Chinese Embassy in Washington would not confirm details of the restrictions. But spokesperson Liu Pengyu accused the US of “abusing export controls” and “maliciously blocking China’s progress.”
Second Blow: Visa Crackdown on Chinese Students
Then came an even more personal blow.
Speaking from the White House, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the administration would begin “aggressively revoking visas” for Chinese students—especially those in sensitive academic fields or with ties to China’s ruling Communist Party.
More than 270,000 Chinese students were studying in the US last year. Many had spent years preparing and saving for the chance. Some now fear they’ll be forced to pack up and leave mid-degree.
“I’m terrified,” said Candy, a statistics student at the University of Michigan who asked to be identified only by her nickname. “My family has sacrificed so much for me to be here. If they cancel my visa, I lose everything.”
China’s Foreign Ministry responded sharply on Thursday, calling the move “unjust and ideological.” In a brief statement, the ministry said, “This is yet another example of the US politicising education and stoking fear.”
The policy could affect not only students from elite families but also many from China’s growing middle class, who saw a US education as the gateway to a better life.
A Risky Game of Retaliation
Some analysts warn this might backfire for Washington.
“Cutting off Chinese students doesn’t stop China’s rise. It might actually speed it up,” said Dr Li Wen, an international relations expert at Tsinghua University in Beijing. “These students will now stay home and help build the future here.”
Indeed, the number of Chinese students going to the US has been declining for years. Concerns over racism, visa delays, and political hostility have made families think twice. Countries like Canada, the UK, and Australia have become more attractive alternatives.
Wednesday’s visa order may push even more to look elsewhere—or choose top Chinese universities instead.
A Small Win, Quickly Undone
Ironically, China did get a legal win that same day. A US federal court temporarily blocked Trump’s push to expand global tariffs, including those on Chinese goods. But the victory was short-lived. The White House immediately appealed, and the tariffs remain in place for now.
What happens next is uncertain.
Both countries have just under three months to agree on long-term trade terms. But trust, which was already thin, is now in even shorter supply.
“It feels like we’re back to square one,” said a senior Chinese trade official, speaking anonymously due to the sensitivity of the talks. “The US says one thing and does another. It’s hard to negotiate when the ground keeps shifting.”
For now, China is watching—and waiting. But patience, as the saying goes, is not infinite.
