When are the republicans going to indict this traitorous criminal?
They are complicit hypocrites. Law and order, Conservative party ... what a joke. Except not funny.
Even George Will is appalled.
So Canada is a greater threat to the national security of the USA than the People Republic of China and ZTE. And NO, we did not burn the White House in 1814, the British did it.
Also I thought that president Trump wanted to save job in the USA not in the PRC.
2
What a reversal to the security threat the president so boldly accused China of. Just pay a fine of 1 billion dollars and conduct business as usual. Just goes to show….President Trump and his administration will sell their very souls for money. Apparently greed and lust for money come before patriotism and defense of the country and not surprisingly from a President who questions every one else’s patriotism. I would like to know who gets the 1 billion dollars and how it will be put to use and the other perks this President and his family will be receiving from China.
2
So does our president do anything other than posture for American workers. Oh, wait for it....sound bite coming on Fox Propaganda at 10....
1
Dear President Xi Jinping,
If you don't hold up your end of the bargain to make Trump look like a hero in the North Korea deal, your ZTE deal will be "fired". DT has no clue, no qualms, and no morals - the G6 gets that and you will soon.
1
This is nuts. Trump is out doing things with the approval of no one but the expressed disapproval of only a few brave souls with their own political agenda. My guess is when Trump gets himself knee deep in trade practices that no one approves, chances are if we follow the money, there's a lot going into Trump's pocket. And he knows he can get away with it. Who's going to take away his license to steal?
The Trump fans won't recognize the facts of what is happening here. The man has sold out USA security interests for his own narcissistic goal of a Nobel for meeting with Korea's Kim and China's Xi was astute enough to know how to manipulate Trump's ego to do it. While even Republican politicians express wary, even disagreeable, comments on the situation, the Trump crowd crows about the great deal-maker.
The president sells out the nation for a mess of pottage! And our allies around the world are treated like dirt. If it were in a novel, people would call it unbelievable.
This needs to framed for what it is. A $1B bribe.
2
Trump's pay to play scheme? After the bribes from ATT, Novartis, Ukraine, and who knows who else, the GOP are doing nothing. It's unconscionable. How can anyone support any Republican? They're all complicit. They can end this at any time.
1
So this is you make America great again?
So this is how you create jobs for Americans?
So this is how you stand strong against adversaries?
So this is how you project American power?
Tired of winning yet?
1
Hey...not fair, they are a very good company and we don't want Chinese workers to without work, it help's our unemployment rate go down, see, the more Chinese workers are employed in China, our unemployment rate keeps going down. Yeah, I know it's really hard for 99% of the people to understand that, it's too complicated unless you have a super brain like I have. Besides, Ivanka and I have too many deals hanging out there in China to make a lot of money, we can't let a little spying on Americans get in the way. So says the inept one in the WH.
1
Can we just nationalize the Trump empire as a penalty for treason (forget impeachment and just go for treason) and get back a government that works for the citizens. Seriously, Trump just enable massive espionage and digital warfare by a foreign entity.
1
Flatter Trump and you get your way. Thanks, Kim Kardashian, Kim Jong Un, ZTE, Trump “base” for demonstrating how America works these days. Take note, G-7.
2
1.5 billion is chump change for the Chinese. The info and data collection is for them and their long term plans, well worth the price. Hope the trump property in Asia is worth selling our country out.
VOTE. Better yet,GET INVOLVED in your local election group. We need all hands on deck!!!!!!
1
The President of the United States and The Russian Federation (both Vladmir Putin) are happy--da good!
At least Ivanka got her Chinese trademarks.
Good deal for her - for America, not so much.
2
The Trump administration continues its' goal to bring back more jobs ....to China and weaken our national security by putting the fourth largest manufacturer of mobile phones and telecommunications back into cyber-espionage against the United States and other western nations. The Trump Fellow-Travelers Club continues is adoration of the communist ideology of Putin and China.
What's Cohen's share? 5%?
We sold our security for a $$$. Now that's patriotism in the Trump era.
Yes......we get $2.86 each, (1 billion dollars / 350 million US citizens)........for that it appears is cost to breach our security, take American jobs away......oh Donald you are so good .......at hurting the everyday American......
2
this is not a fine - it is a bribe.
Good luck on collecting $1 Billion from this company. That’s the biggest joke of all.
OK, so now we know the United States can be bought off. Sweet.
1
What’s the difference between a fine and a shakedown? Another Trump throws a monkey wrench into a situation to profit from it.
Make China Great Again. Sad.
BEHOLD THE DEAL MAKER! Sending jobs to a Chinese company that has broken US laws, at taxpayer expense. If that's what Trump calls making American great again, what would happen if he wished to destroy the US? Better not answer that question and risk tempting fate.
1
Who will save us from the Trump family kleptocracy? He and his family seem to have one measure of a "deal" will it benefit their projects or bottom line. Trademarks, multi-million investments in their resort developments, loans for 666 in NY. It seems that Trump may be the next version of the "Manchurian" candidate. I wonder which country will welcome this kleptocrat when we finally convict he and his cohort: Russia or China. And of course will his Republican cohort grant him amnesty in return for helping them destroy the FDR and even bipartisan legacy of programs that help our citizens deal with health insurance and retirement. As an 84 year old retired Naval Officer I despair for my country and only hope that all citizens will exercise their right to vote to put in place a Congress that will stop and even reverse the terrible trajectory that we are on.
Finally I hope no one will attend this proposed travesty of a military parade.
Make China Great Again!
Jesting aside, ZTE was actually not as egregious as Huawei more than a decade when the latter hacked into Nortel, then a crown jewel of Canadian technology industry. Nortel was subsequently sold in pieces in bankruptcy court. Then there is the case of American Superconductor, which is still in litigation.
Selling telecom gears to Iran is not bad, you ask. Well, remember the Iran-Contra case in the Reagan era when North sold arms to Iran? North is now the NRA president. Too bad his loyal assistant, Fawn Hall, did not fair as well!
So sure, Trump is just like his mini me Pruitt, but the Republicans have had a long history of this stuff. Imagine if President Obama had reached out to his Chinese counterpart, it would have been treason call
This is a joke this is not a lifeline. somehow this is some back room dealing that will enrich Trump and this his what this has all been about from the beginning. What is that saying follow the money and some where this is benefit Trump and not the country.
3
Cost of business penalty. How trivial and who do you think will pay the fine ultimately in the form of fractions of cents spread across billions of transactions? It’s all over but the bragging.
1
Selling out America with yet another Trump bribe. How much of this sell out goes into Trump's pocket? To the cost of every deal with foreigners you must consider the tax consequences and the amount of the bribes that will have to be paid.
Help make Trump a billionaire. Vote Republican on Nov. 6th, if the president's lawyers don't decide that the president has the inherent power to protect the presidency by suspending elections .
4
The access ZTE gets to the firmware and underlying architecture of US telecommunication infrastructure is priceless. It is near impossible to police commercially and legally without Chinese compliance with the norms of western intellectual property licensing. Genuine individual privacy and national security concerns are at issue. They should have trumped our President's penchant for over personalizing and infantilizing the negotiation process or "art of the deal." If ZTE had to go out of business, they earned it. The death penalty has to be on the table for large enterprises - whether owned by corporations or states.
3
US made a mistake in ZTE. China, her high tech and industrial companies, finally wake up and will use this as an early warning shot to triple her efforts to become independent from all foreign made strategic products that can be shutoff in times of sanctions, trade wars or military confrontations.
1
The way US government treated ZTE and other Chinese companies (e.g. Huawei) will only push China to be more
self-reliant in terms of key technologies like chip fabrication.
Because so-called "security concern", those Chinese companies have been shut out of the US market effectively.
By the same token, China can bar most US tech companies
from China as they have collaborated with US government
in stealing Chinese secrets according to Snowden. So the trade war has barely started yet.
4
Us technology companies have been banned or very limited in China long time ago (see Facebook, google, Apple, and so on).
Chinese policy of made in China 2025 has already clearly pronounced their ambitions of dominating and leading in many industries you mention, and that policy happened before the ZTE debacle.
If we were to derive any benefit of our dominance in certain industries we better do it now before it’s too late.
Hence the trump move now, but in fact we should have been more aggressive years ago
2
"ZTE had agreed to pay a $1 billion fine, replace its board and senior leadership, and allow the United States to more closely inspect the company by effectively having a handpicked compliance team embedded inside the firm"
Who will be responsible for enforcing these terms?
And ZTE resumes its business immediately before any of these terms go into effect?
1
How much of that money will go to the Trump family?
2
Trump and his family make millions from this deal and the American taxpayers and workers are left out. Impeach trump!
1
This sounds like extortion to me.
3
Trump panders to China once again for his own gain. A billion dollars is actually nothing for this company. But Trump's Indonesian project will now get built with Chinese money. That is how things are done in the U.S. now. Only if Trump benefits does anything get done!
2
Clearly any country that wants to do business with the USA must first loan or give money to Trump Inc.
2
A billion dollar fine, a 500 million investment in Trump enterprise and the president helps make China great again.
3
Merely another cost-of-doing-business "penalty."
The more serious issue concerns our security and the unknown implications of likely embedded code in the gadgets and chips ZTE sends our way. Nothing of significant size in China functions without the direct approval of the Chinese Communist Party government, and all that it approves must be in accord with Party policy.
How many Americans really want to trust the security of our nation's command-and-control apparatus, our electric grid, and our financial system (not to mention one's own personal data) to Xi Jinping?
2
Make China Great Again.
2
Since everything Trump does is personal and not based on thoughtful and researched policy, I view any "deals" he makes with countries such as China as having personal offerings involved under the table, to family members and possibly his own companies.
I hate this presidency. We're need a LOT of sunshine to break through and soon.
7
This is a win-win for everyone. The US gets its pound of flesh and demonstrates to China that the US can crush a large Chinese company if it so desires. China gets to save face, preserve jobs, and it demonstrates that it can work inside the global regime at some level.
It’s a win-win for the Trump family and China but a loss for America’s security. But then again, Trump has demonstrated repeatedly that he doesn’t care about America’s security (his relationships with Russians, his disputes with our international security partners in NATO, his attacks on our security agencies, even things as trivial as his unwillingness to use a protected cell phone) but he does care a lot about the financial security of his family.
3
“demonstrates to China that the US can crush a large Chinese company if it so desires.”
The keyword here is “crush”. This word pretty much summarizes the mentality of a majority of trump supporters.
Well, I’m glad trump is keeping his supporters testosterone level high, because that’s about all they're going to get out of this.
From today’s WaPo:
“U.S. steel prices have risen nearly 40 percent since the start of the year, and are now more than 50 percent higher than in both Europe and China, according to the S&P Global Platts benchmark price assessment for hot-rolled coil, the bellwether product.”
and,
“A report released this week by the Trade Partnership, a consulting and research firm, estimated that the ratio of jobs lost to jobs gained from Trump’s trade actions will be about 16 to 1: 26,280 steel and aluminum jobs gained, compared with 432,747 jobs eliminated throughout the rest of the economy.”
So, my friend, how’s that “crushing” working out for you?
A $1 billion fine is chump change for the Chinese to be able to continue their multi-faceted attack on US and western interests.
The Chinese trade team, led by Xi Jinping are like world champion chess masters. Trump, by comparison, is a 3rd grade checkers player. How do you think this is going to work out for America?
There are many, many issues tied up in all this: China's support for North Korea, Chinese demands for title to the South China sea including artificially created militarized islands, the Chinese demand for US intellectual property in exchange for selling rights for US companies, Chinese espionage against US government and businesses, Chinese spying on its own citizens in the US, Chinese limits on US businesses inside China, Chinese theft of intellectual property, Chinese demands for title to Taiwan, Chinese human rights abuses, Chinese oppression of the Tibetan people, the Chinese oppression of religious freedom , Chinese subsidized prices for steel sold in the US, the fact that we depend upon Chinese manufactured technology products, the trade imbalance between China and the US, etc., etc.
Trump can't keep these straight in his head. He plays one card at a time -- and not all that well -- while the Chinese play all their cards in a strategic priority. We are doomed.
6
Those that scream "trade war" are the first to denounce the ZTE deal, which shows that President Trump recognizes the potentially diasatrous consequences of an actual trade war between the world's two largest economies. The anti-China mafia, with its spokesman such as Marco Rubio, denounce all things Chinese and stand in the way of China's stated intent to shrink the trade deficit by increasing purchases of American manufactured products, investing in US infrastructure, and participating in joint development projects.
2
It's a shakedown on a vast scale.
Trump uses US policy to threaten businesses and then he makes exceptions for the ones who pay him off personally.
12
I guess the tariff's really weren't about "security" after all. Follow the money.
8
Terrible and weak "deal" Trump and Ross! Shows no principle or backbone. In the words of our fearless leader, China is "laughing at us."
7
A billion dollar fine...oh wow...Trump will get a sound bite where he can lie some more. His base will be so pleased they will continue to allow him to destroy the country...
6
This the very same company our security agencies said used it's equipment, already here, to spy, gather data, etc. Now, 45 has given them 'permission' to sell here anyway!? And, on yeah, he got 500 Mil from China for a project....no connection there, I suppose!
We have a flagrant outlaw in the WH and those who have the responsibility to do oversight, are AWOL. November cannot come quickly enough.
7
One billion dollars fine is cheap. China could afford much more. China has good and smart negotiators. Just watch ZTE will give a lot troubles for us. We are stuck with China, like her or not.
3
So basically the whole ZTE situation was a Trump special, it basically was an extortion campaign. Trump wasn't trying to protect national security, what he did was akin to what mob types do to construction companies, they extort huge payoffs in return for "labor peace", what Trump basically did was target ZTE to try and scare the Chinese into trade negotiations. If ZTE really did what Trump claims a billion dollar fine is nothing (the Chinese government probably paid it), it won't stop them from selling stuff to Iran and North Korea...and honestly, it won't scare the Chinese government either, it isn't going to cause them to negotiate in good faith.
6
Trump has been mobbed up since his Roy Cohn days.
Senators Cotten, Van Hollen and Schumer are introducing legislation which has bipartisan to reinstate sanctions to protect our national security against ZTE, which has bipartisan support.
They will be able to get it to the floor via McConnell. Their prior sanctions resolution was veto proof.
Hopefully, there will be sufficient support to protect our national security, that Trump is trying to prohibit for his own personal gain, like everything else he does.
6
The state of our federal government today: they are into extortion and bribery. Don't we taxpayers deserve better? Where has our sense of morality gone?
6
“I assure you with 100% confidence that #ZTE is a much greater national security threat than steel from Argentina or Europe,” Florida Senator Marco Rubio wrote on Twitter on Thursday. “#VeryBadDeal.”
Reading this statement, I wonder if I should be encouraged that a Republican appears interested in working for the benefit of the country, rather than merely for the benefit of his own personal finances. On the other hand, it's Marco Rubio. Based on his previous behavior, I am doubtful that he possess the moral courage to follow through on any action that requires integrity.
3
Gotta get those jobs back . . . in China?? This decision is totally baffling, but I'm sure the president has carefully thought it through and is playing the "long con" with this strategy (yes, I set up my own punch line).
Small price for us to pay for Ivanka's Patent approvals. Unbelievable that he would go against all National Security Advice from the Government.
6
So if the Iranians and the North Koreans each pay the US the billion dollars will they too cease to be "national security" threats?
1
Trump has been a disgrace and a major disappointment. Google is getting fined over 10 billion and they are getting off easy. This company just got a wonderful gift from Trump.
4
Does ZTE pay the U.S., or does the money go into trumps back account?
5
I wonder where that billion dollars will go. Probably the same black hole as the billions that disapperared during the Iraq war.
2
As long as Trump got his $500 million from China, it is ok
3
Trump sees fit to favor a espionage-laden Chinese company, as soon as the Chinese agreed to invest in his hotel development in Indonesia and give Ivanka brand rights. So much for patriotism from this repugnant traitor.
4
The price of American national security? $1.5 billion. One billion payment to military industrial complex to undo the damage that Chinese espionage will cause using ZTE products, and $500 million paid into Trump's kleptocracy fund.
4
Trump saves jobs for trump supporters, and the ones that come up with the vigorish. To his mind, why not include the Chinese? Why exclude them? Like the Russians, the Chinese know how to deal.
The Democrats missed a chance by not selling out to the Chinese they way the Republicans sold out to the Russians.
The presidency was a business opportunity for Donald Trump and his family and it is paying off in spades. The$500 million Chinese investment in his amusement complex and $1 billion Qatar investment in Jared's building makes the presidency a winning business deal for Trump. ZTE is a side show for him. Ultimately he either doesn't know or doesn't care how this firm stole and distributed American technology to NK and Iran. Either it matters or it doesn't matter. Either this harms US interests in the long run or it doesn't. If it does why do we let Trump lift the sanctions? The presidency cannot be just about Trump making money.
5
"Mr. Trump has said the ZTE move is part of “the larger trade deal we are negotiating with China and my personal relationship with President Xi.”
In his own words that he is acting on his own personal behalf, not in the interest of the nation.
7
What did America get in return? Probably nothing.
What did the Trump family get in return? Probably enormous secret kickbacks from China. After all, Trump has to pay off the Russian banks somehow.
7
You mean, a $1 billion fine and the erstwhile president's extortion of a $500 million bribe. I mean, really, you have to make hay while the sun shines, right?
5
No American jobs are saved and Trump was advised by the legislative branch that ZTE is working against American interests. But he got that Chinese funded hotel in Indonesia and Ivanka got 13 patents, so obviously this is putting America First.
12
"No American jobs " ?
Not Fooled, You missed the 300,000 former coal miners that are now actively building the wall & getting their paychecks from Mexico. ..Saw it on Fox News.
1
Where do all these fines go anyway? Straight into someone's pocket?
Trump sales the United States to whoever puts money into his pocket, and the Chinese are right now his darlings after the money they put in his "business" ventures in Indonesia. How much more corrupt can a government official be?
5
$1B? Sanctions are lifted. That's it? We penalize those that default on student loans harder than that. What baffles me is that since we don't live under a dictatorship (although it may seem that way sometimes), is that don't they think they [Trump organization] will get "found out"? Not that it isn't obvious, but power will change hands as it is inevitable that these old, white men in Congress will not live forever. History will teach our children about the avarice and criminality of the Trump/Kushner family, and it will be ugly. Their descendants will live with an ugly and shameful lineage. And I don't think the consequences have even to wait that long.
2
Only a Billion? Went to their local ATM.
4
Just for perspective, this fine amounts to only a little over 3 day's' revenue for ZTE.
1
Setting aside the suspicious awarding of trademarks to Trump's family, a $500 million investment in a Trump hotel and the fact the military knows the ZTE phone is a security threat, ZTE had over $107 BILLION in revenue last year and they're getting a $1 billion fine.
1% of this giant's revenue. Big deal.
4
As with most high tech goods it is only a matter of time before China will make all of the components needed by ZTE and not need a US source. So paying a fine now to keep ZTE in business until they no longer need the US components is a strategic plan/decision.
In the short term Trump has already benefitted with the Chinese $500 million financing of an Indonesia hotel/golf course connected to the Trump brand.
Who would make Wilbur Ross Sec. of Commerce after he was co-chairman of the Bank of Cyprus which was the favorite bank the Russian oligarchs used to launder their money. Trump would because he was involved with laundering it in his real estate deals.
America , what have you done yourself ? If the Philadelphia Eagles can do the right thing re Trump why are you sitting on your hands ?
4
Once again, merely a cost-of-doing-business "penalty."
Far more serious is the security issue and that President Trump's actions often Make America Vulnerable Again.
3
What's a little greenmail to make a potential national security issue go away? It worked for Wells Fargo too.
3
So, Mr. Trump just sold the personal info of every American citizen for roughly three dollars per.
I'd say the chinese government got a bargain.
9
So is this another one of those fines that is never collected or...?
1
Now we now the price tag that trump is willing to trade national security for...
5
Got off easier than banks, thanks Obama, oh sorry Thanks Trump.
George Walker Bush bailed out the banks (after starting two unnecessary wars on a lie and/or a mistake)
President Obama bailed out the US auto industry and saved our collective skin from total financial collapse
4
This back-peddling on ZTE is rubbish and lies. Trump (and "all-things-Trump) has something monetarily to gain from this "new" ZTE soft ball pitch.
Wilbur Ross is telling Americans to "smile, and look at the bunny", rather than see the real deal here. A billion dollars in Fines ? That's lunch money to Xi. And now, "our embedded compliance department" monitoring ZTE will be "paid for by China". I smell more rats, here, and more back room buy offs.
China is not stupid, and Xi plays his hand much wiser than Trump. "All" that Trump wants is more money. "All" that Xi wants is 100% total global domination in EVERYTHING.
From microchips to the muzzle of a gun, Xi won't stop until America is bound and tied. Xi's smile is hollow, but his chess board skills are sharp. Trump is risking our National Security for yet another ego-inflated Trump Golf Links in some far away rich enclave.
Trump isn't running our Country as a President should. He is running our Country into the ground.
5
Not bad. Billion dollar fine and half a billion to Trump project.
Way to hustle.
5
"It is not clear what the United States received in return."
Huh?
The deal is exactly as you outlined. The U.S. lifted sanctions in exchange for $1 billion fine and the placement of a U.S.-selected compliance team within ZTE, which must also replace its management team.
It also means that thousands of U.S. workers will continue to have their jobs supplying components to ZTE products.
This may be a good deal or bad deal, but the deal itself is pretty clear.
3
So Trump saved a Chinese company which the Department if Defense considers a security risk to national security – who exactly is this good for?
4
the "deal" is this:
Trump gets another project and his daughter gets more trademarks
5
The US workers who supply the chips.
This is a great deal for US.
ZTE continues to buy US goods, pay US semiconductor companies and allow US companies to keep their employees and to plow profits into R&D based in the US. ZTE is still limited from selling in US due to "security concerns" so they can't attack this market.
China's internal pressure to develop their own competing technologies is lessened and China continues to rely on and be beholden to US tech, which continues to advance because of these profits China keeps giving up to the US.
US gov't gets a peek inside a Chinese tech giant.
5
Cool! For $1 billion the United States sells to a Chinese company widely identified as a security threat the opportunity to resume spying on us. Is this a great country or what? Canada becomes a national security threat to be disciplined by tariffs while China buys a dispensation. Very well done, Chinese spymasters. And we can see the possibilities of a significant growth industry.....how much will it cost North Korea for the right to detonate a nuclear device on US soil? Will the Russians need to make one flat payment upfront or can they pay for unfettered access to meddle in US elections on the installment plan? As a Republican I never thought I would see the day would sell the rights to undermine US security. Because that is what it is, folks. And dirt cheap, so cheap that one wonders whether there are some juicy side payments to key actors, e.g., even cheaper labor to make Ivanka socks or permission for a Trump Tower Tibet. Frankly it is enough to make one reconsider a Republican Party membership of decades; I can be tolerant of pretty blatant corruption because that is a Party norm but selling the possibility of spying on us is a step too far. How much for exclusive heroin smuggling rights? That Scott Pruitt has a publicly-funded goon squad bothers me less than President Trump's plan to make us pay billions in higher electricity costs to enrich his fossil fuel funders, but even this Republican has limits, and selling American security is more than I can contemplate.
8
President Trump with all his bluster can't afford to destroy the US or World economy. They happen to be connected and doing rather well in spite of the fake problems the President has brought up about trade.
If the Democrats win the House they will have the power to investigate. If they win the Senate and House President Trump can be impeached.
It's hard to believe that Trump has some self preservation instincts. In this case it's good for ZTE, China, the USA and the global economy.
China isn't our enemy, they have 20% of the worlds population. They have a growing middle class of highly educated people. Theft of intellectual property, patents and other business ideas along with defense theft has been going on since War and commerce was invented. Shockingly even the US and US companies engage in it.
1
We are taking payment from a counterfeiter? Scrutinize every RMB. Odds are Chinese will devalue their currency and get 500 billionUSD from Americans and prove yet again that crime pays.
2
Now Wilbur, how would you like us to pay the fine. US Currency?
Thanks for asking. We would prefer payment in ZTE stock if that's all right with you.
Hmmm. I'll have to get back to you on that Mr. Ross.
1
Making Asia Great Again...
9
Sounds awfully like blackmail that really does very little to solve what was considered the problem in the first place.
A "hand picked compliance team"? That's a joke in a company the size of ZTE.
2
Bravo! The American national security is for sale! Pay one billion dollars and receive a “Get out of Jail” card under Trump’s Presidency that has turned into a game of Monopoly. Once you establish the price for the US national security the highest bidder gets to purchase the right to destroy it regardless who pays for it. What did the US get in return from China? 1) Ivanaka’s brands allowed to sell in China; 2) With China’s blessings Trump gets a photo op with Kim Jong-Un. That is the nature of diplomacy and national security when you get a “businessman” for the president of the US. I weep for the men and women who gave their lives and spilled blood to guard the US interest and security that will now be frittered away to the highest bidders in paper money.
4
This is shameful. It’s not even a slap on the wrist. Meanwhile China continues to steal valuable IP via millions of Chinese nationals who populate US universities and companies. Once they rise to managerial positions, Chinese nationals tend to hire other Chinese nationals in the US. This goes for both high tech companies and research labs. Unless China is treated like the Soviet Union was treated during the Cold War, it’s game over for the West. A good start would be imposing sanctions on any company that recognizes Taiwan as part of China. Start with the airlines, like Air Canada.
4
Newspaper announcement 6 months from now:
3 New Trump Hotels will be built in China
8
Oh wait - does Trump plan to use the $1B penalty to build the border wall? So make China pay for it, rather than Mexico? At the expense of jeopardizing national security, of course - but Trump only seems concerned about Canada and desperate refugees (including their tiny children) as threats.
2
So, we know Donald Trump holds the intelligence community in some contempt. He never appreciated their unanimous determination that Russia interfered with the election in his favor or the derivative investigations that have only provided more proof.
So now, the IC puts ZTE in a box, and Trump -- after the exchange of a lot of money -- decides we need to help China's employment opportunities. More money back and forth, and suddenly, all is well and the nation's security is no longer at issue.
Where is Congress? Since when does Article II trump Article I?
2
There is a lot more complex than what's being reported to outside-the-industry audiences. As a neutral industry insider, who once had some responsibilities for export control compliance, I can see strong arguments on both sides.
ZTE has always, in my experience, had a tendency to be a bit clueless. Failing to appreciate the seriousness of the US export control regime and the original sanctions is not out of character. It seems likely that their recent near-death experience will have a "scared straight" effect.
The role of US telecom components companies in the global supply chain is a strategic issue that deserves more careful consideration than the current rhetoric. At stake is billions in short-term revenue, and the perception of US companies are reliable suppliers, vs national security concerns. Chinese independence from US suppliers would be a blow to US leadership.
I have yet to be fully convinced that ZTE and Huawei present a significant US security threat. Unless I'm missing something, some of the alleged vulnerabilities do not stand up to rigorous analysis.
The export control regime is badly out of date and its complexity and rigidity undermines its purpose. Congress and DoC need to initiate major reforms. At the same time, failure to enforce the regulations undermine the parts that are critical to national security. Trade partners must respect those concerns, or face consequences.
Overall, this seems to be the least bad of the possible outcomes.
8
Thank you for your sensible, insightful and on-topic analysis.
1
It is infuriating that the Trump family bribes....Jakarta and Ivanka trademark licensing...by China are allowed to trump our national security.
I cannot wait for the day when this Trump family/gang of thieves gets kicked out either to prisons or out of 'public view and into ignominy, where they belong.
7
Well, at least we have the safeguard of DOJ review as to whether there is an inappropriate quid pro quo for Trump's family and commercial interests at play here.
Oops...scratch that. What was I thinking?
Well, I'm sure Congress will be all over this rotten kettle of fish. Surely we can trust them to do the right thing here. This is a good Trey Gowdy Oversight target for his farewell tour.
No to this, too?
It's got to be GREAT to be the king.
9
A slap on the wrist, favoritism toward Trump's business interests and life goes on. Grifter.
11
A billion dollar fine is chump change. Lifting sanctions only helps China. ZTE has deep ties to the government of China.
This deal with China's ZTE can only be explained and justified by what is best for the profitable business interests of the House of Trump and the Trump Organization.
But President Donald John Trump is hiding his personal and family income tax returns and business records from the American people. By failing to declare, disclose and divest his business holdings into a blind-trust Trump's personal interests conflict with his solemn sworn oath to preserve, protect and defend the Constitution as President of the United States.
10
Rich people and corporations "reach a settlement". Poor people go to jail.
6
Wilber Ross announced today that "kleptocracy is getting stronger in America and President Trump is the leader of them all"
5
Right, as if a few observers sitting around the ZTE executive dinning room are going to have a crystal clear picture of everything Chinese intelligence is doing deep inside the company. As with everything Trump, ninety percent of whatever is really going on lies deep beneath that which is visible on the surface.
6
It's not a billion dollar fine, it's a billion dollar bribe. Trump has let it be known that U.S. foreign policy -- even U.S. national security -- can be bought, and the Chinese are buying. So are the Russians. I wonder what Putin paid to get Trump to turn on our closest Canadian and European allies for the benefit of the Kremlin.
9
Trumpco got a $500 million loan from China;now America and China are buddies; INVESTIGATE TRUMP Ray Sipe
9
The question is are they really a security threat? If so no fine will suffice only total banning of them. If not, and they broke some business rules then OK a fine is good. So, what is the deal? Are they a business deal or are they a threat to our security? Remember Canada and Mexico are being punished since they are "a threat to our security". I think Trump has no idea of any of this.
6
Why does Qualcomm need to be " awaiting Chinese approval of a deal to acquire a Dutch telecom firm that will help it build the next generation of wireless technology, known as 5G". Can someone explain? This makes no sense.
3
The price of doing business. ZTE pays a billion to the US and 1/2 billion to our leader and is free to resume it's business in the US and it's sales to North Korea and other countries under sanctions. Great deal.
6
Business? Probably you did not get it right. ZTE perhaps started its life to make money as much as possible, unlike Huawei which had from the beginning other objectivec well imbedded in its existence; but today, as CCP explicitly demands close obedience by any big entities to follow its guidance and leadership, ZTE is closer to Huawei.
Qualcomm is not the US’ only key to developing superiority in 5G Technology. Intel has been developing and promoting 5G technology for years. Intel’s booth at CES 2018 was almost entirely dedicated to showcasing their prowess in 5G as was their showcase at the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona in February. Perhaps this deal is more about the Trump administration’s distain for Silicon Valley and a reward for his Southern California supporters.
1
We should exploit every opportunity to probe the Chinese for signs of industrial weakness. ZTE is a good example. We know precious little about China’s strategic weaknesses and how they view their own future technology prospects. Their willingness to pay this fine tells us something. The Chinese respect only power and money and the status they bestow unlike our Western allies. Our struggle with China will be a defining feature of this century. We better get this right
4
With this agreement ,Trump has mastered The Art of the Unethical Deal. Ivanka gets her trademarks , and ZTE gets to exploit our security interests. Trump / Mills capitulation paid for by Ivanka getting trademarks for her Chinese made goods . The Republicans , once again ,mute on this unethical deal. McConnell , Cornyn, Meadows and Jordan swap America’s interests for keeping on Trump’s good side. ZTE the only winner in this deal.
12
Yes and where’s the all so patriotic Tom
Cotton who liked to make theater over this issue? I suppose cowering in the corner to not upset his guru in chief.
2
Cotton is coward by his donors
Just like Cruz
1
"But the company’s fate has gotten caught up in a bigger web, including an upcoming summit between President Trump and North Korea’s leader and the success of an American telecom company, Qualcomm, which sells a large amount of semiconductors to ZTE and is awaiting Chinese approval of a deal to acquire a Dutch telecom firm that will help it build the next generation of wireless technology, known as 5G."
Trump may or may not have use this as an opportunity to promote his personal brand, nobody should overlook the bigger picture and do the right thing.
The Con Don's Robber Baron brethren, who he has installed in OUR top government spots, got their way. Now they will be able to get a main stake in ZTE, destroy competition and try to take over the world.
Regulators cleared the way this week for Rupert Murdoch to buy out Sky - by selling part of his business to Disney. Disney and Murdoch own the lion's share of global communication already and are using their power to destroy competition and free speech.
Regulators do not work for 99% of us - if they ever did. They need to be either put out of business or regulated themselves by public watchdog groups and/or agencies like The Consumer Finance Protection Bureau that Senator Elizabeth Warren and President Obama created. Of course, The Con Don and his Robber Baron brethren are trying to destroy that right now.
This is a perilous time for 99% of Americans and people around the world. WE THE PEOPLE - average people around the world - are the only ones who can/will stop them and WW3.
2
What sense does it make to allow a company to function if you monitor its activities from the inside? This tortured logic will come back to haunt us in the future. Let it rise or fall on its own merit.
1
You do realize, of course, that this article is concerning ZTE, a Chinese manufacturer of cellphones and electronics, and that those products are suspected of being able to surreptitiously report customers' data back to, ultimately, the Chinese government, and that our U. S. government and military are blocked from using these products, and that we are talking CHINA here?
1
It’s time China experienced real capitalism. Let ZTE go bankrupt and all of its employees scramble for new livelihoods — just as Americans are expected to act when their jobs go away.
9
How many millions went into the Trump coffers for this deal? The Trump's continue to rob, steal and lie at every opportunity. What a wholesome bunch of people. We should all be so proud of these grifters.
Our President, the Thief in Chief of the United States.
4
Helping China's ZTE is a slap in the face to our ally's. Here we have a country that practices espionage against us via the tech giant ZTE and getting away with it, while steel and aluminum tariffs against key allies is justified by saying it is a national security issue. Whose side is Trump on?
4
Why don't these articles include the obvious reason for this deal? New trademarks for Ivanka and a 500 million dollar investment in Trump business in Indonesia.
13
Excellent article that totally fails to explain how the operation of ZTE was a national security threat. Oh. Maybe it wasn't an excellent article.
1
That's a billion dollars flowing into the American treasury that wouldn't be there if Hillary had won. Plenty more coming. #MAGA
1
Hey President Trump, I am still waiting for this headline: "China Strikes Deal to Help Build iPhone Manufacturing in the US"; similar for many other higher-end consumer electronics devices. What was it again: America - wait, I got this - first?
4
Trump seems to be a much more worrisome security threat for the US. Vote.
7
A billion dollars to steal technology and spy on Americans. The Chinese are fleecing Trump and Americans again. Maybe, he can find a Russian company to save next?
2
National Security? We don' need no National Security!
We need trademarks, hotel deals and cash.
MAGA.
9
Trump should pay ZTE's fine. It appears that he, Ivanka and Jareed received considerations from the Chinese far exceeding that amount.
2
This most corrupt administration is selling the US out comes as no surprise. What's insulting for the American people is that they are selling the US out so cheap.
For a bunch of America-Firsters this gang of thieves is awfully concerned about saving Chinese jobs. Trump is clearly a thug.
Midterm's elections are going to be crucial for the Americans and their allies.
4
This deal is not "making America great again". Trump's rhetoric about China during his 2016 campaign "raping" America for years and taking our jobs, well, he's enabling China with this deal. Smoke and mirrors folks, but his supporters will still say he's doing a great job...
3
The money is chump change compared to the larger picture. Putin must have shared the Moscow hotel pics with Xi.
3
One billion dollars isn't actually a pittance. But it allows Trump to claim he did something.
I think the US compliance team embedded inside ZTE is the important part. This could set up the precedence for similar teams inside other Chinese companies that violate the embargo, or trade, or intellectual property protection.
2
As effective as say, monitoring the compliance of Syria with respect to nerve gas?
4
The absurdity of accepting a payoff in return for forgiving the serious violations of shipping US technology to countries such as North Korea, Iran and Syria despite clear violations of US
sanctions means that the floodgates are now officially open. To do so, follow these steps: 1. Start a business in China
2. Ingratiate yourself with the ruling elite
3. Import sensitive tech from the US and other countries, then export to countries that are on the sanctions list
4. Collect profits
5. If you get caught, pay a fine, loan money to something Trump-related
Repeat as needed. Also, it helps if you order Trump steaks, stay in Trump Hotels while traveling, and play golf on Trump courses whenever possible.
But, what if you don't violate any US sanctions, but are located in a country allied with the US, such as Canada. In that case, you get smacked with tariffs due to "national security concerns", and subjected to verbal abuse. Just take the hint, move to China! And, remember - order Trump steaks, stay in Trump hotels, patronize Trump golf courses. You'll get the hang of it -eventually.
13
Looks like a successful shakedown. But who’s the real Mr. Big here? And who’s getting a cut of the money that didn’t go to the Treasury?
3
I can't help wondering if the modest $1 billion fine will enable ZTE to continue its complex spying on our country? I also think this deal is a gift to China for its possible help re North Korea, as in moving NK's nuke-topped missiles to China.
5
Let me echo what other posters have said--amen to all of you--and sum up that sanctions imposed on ZTE for violating our sanctions against Iran and North Korea will be lifted and what "we" get is a $1 billion fine (to be paid to whom?), a $500,000,000 investment by China in a Trump Hotel to be built in Indonesia, and hundreds of millions of dollars in future revenue for Ivanka Trump by granting her exclusive patents for her products in China, the most populous country on earth. This deal is in contrast to economic sanctions just leveled on our most important and trusted trading partner and neighbor, Canada, for "violating U.S. national security"? Please, Mr. Trudeau, let me in to Canada and out of this madhouse.
16
The thing here is that Trump is making Benedict Arnold look like the greatest American that ever lived, and he's still the president.
11
So help me understand this: Canada is a national security threat because England torched the White House two hundred years ago? And ZTE (and its state sponsor, China) is not, even though it has a long history of embedding telephone technology for use against American interests? And "[I]t is not clear what the United States has received in return for allowing [ZTE] to avoid sanctions"?
The one thing that IS clear about this picture is that Canada didn't give Trump anything and China gave him half a billion in investment funds for his development in Indonesia.
143
National Security, like the law is what the President says it is.
9
It's very clear what Trump got, a 500 million dollar investment in his Indonesia business and new trademarks for Ivanka.
12
Perfect. Half of that will cover the Trump property deal in Indonesia.
11
So, they fork over some petty cash and Ivanka gets her trademarks...maybe if Canada, Mexico, and the EU would follow suit, the tariffs would be miraculously lifted!
17
2nd comment: dig a bit and likely one would find some personal financial benefit and huge conflict of interest going to the deal broker(s) on our side. Selling out US security for their own personal gain.
I would bet my own $$ that this, in accordance with the pattern up to now, is the case.
9
"Commerce Secretary Wilbur Ross said on Thursday that the United States had reached a deal to end tough American sanctions on the Chinese telecommunications giant ZTE"
Meanwhile, we've imposed tariffs on our traditional allies.
November 6th can't arrive soon enough.
50
Trump can dictate the inner workings of a Chinese company to the Chinese, but we won't enforce the Dodd-Frank Act passed by a majority of the US Congress to regulate American business.
Wierd.
23
It’s sure looks like a pay to play situation. China approved a loan for 500 million for a project that includes Trump. There is also the fact that Ivanka got trademarks out of the deal.
Trump is saving jobs in China while obliterating jobs in the US. It’s a shame that good honest US citizens are hurt by this deal brought on by our government’s actions.
33
Exactly how does this fine resolve our national security problem, 100% ? None of these types of actions has helped the US in the past from preventing China from impairing our national security.
This problem is bigger than Trump. Trump is not our dictator. Congress must pass legislation to negate this agreement.
14
“Their technology is a national security threat, according to our defense and law enforcement authorities,”
So what.
There are only so many hours in the day and the President is spending his time on even greater threats to our nation:
Footballs players who didn't check "I will attend" when RSVP'ING
Television networks that refuse to run comedian hiring and firing decisions by him.
Canadians who have still not apologized for looking like the folks who burned down the White House in 1812. Or something like that.
If Football players, comedians, and Canadians want the President to back off like he did with ZTE they'll just have to bankroll a Trump Organization project like the Chinese. Or loan Kushner some money like Qatar.
How is this complicated?
160
Lesson One: It was the British, NOT Canadians who burned down your White House. British Canada was known as Upper Canada and Lower Canada in 1791. Canada as it is known now became an official country in 1867. On April 17, 1982, Queen Elizabeth II and Prime Minister Pierre Elliot Trudeau signed Canada's Proclamation of the Constitution Act, 1982. This UK Act replaced the British North America Act, transferring to Canada the power of amending its own Constitution.
Second Lesson: We are not a national security threat to America. We helped you in WWI and WWII, We're part of NATO, and are probably the largest trading partner after China.
Lesson Three: Canada is North of the USA, above the 49th parallel.
6
@Majortrout
Unfortunately our president doesn't read much and you used a lot of words without including the only one he cares about: "Trump" .
Plus he doesn't take kindly to "learning lessons". However, he will take wire transfers, unsecured loans, and PayPal.
Majortrout; we know. Please have patience. There are millions and millions of us, which the press seems to ignore, that are moblizing to neuter trump. Please help and support us. We are fighting, you just don't see tanks on the streets or bombs dropping but we are indeed in a fight. And we fight to win. For those of us who are not part of Trump's base, it's an attitude thing. We WILL prevlale.
Exactly what would Russia or China have to do to cross the Trump administration line? Obviously, espionage, enabling terrorists and dictators, and disrupting our democracy is not among them.
45
Something tells me the entire $1 billion won't make its way into the US Treasury...
15
In other news Chine issued a 500 millions investment to real estate development where Trump will have a stake.
Right after Xi call.
30
Somehow, some way Trump is making money off this deal.
38
Just a mere coincidence that the Trump Organization received $500million dollars from the Chinese government recently, for a development at a Chinese theme park in Indonesia?
26
Mr. Ross,
What was the quid pro quo?
15
If they're not a legitimate security threat, we had no business shutting them down in the first place.
If they are, we have no business worth doing with them.
That is, unless we're looking for certain trademark protections. Or casino, hotel or condominium development rights.
So much winning...I'm getting tired of it. He was right after all.
170
What constitutes “a legitimate security threat?”
I don’t know anymore now that Canada and the EU are designated national security threats in Mr. Trump’s justification for tariffs.
5
To what entity does ZTE pay the billion $?
27
Well, apparently a company that helped the North Koreans build a build a nuclear bomb and intercontinental ballistic missile targeting the United States just a got a sweetheart deal from the President.
71
One billion dollar fine?
Sure.
Hand picked Compliance team to keep an eye on ZTE's operations?
Why of course.
30
These folks really think they can control a Chinese company?!.. Good luck with that. I'm sorry but they really are clueless.
51
So now we're paying our greatest economic and military enemey to steal our technology and wreck our economy?
That Trump. What a President, am I right?
52
American got that for free. China bought the right from the Trump Organization.
1
What a foolish concept. We share the planet with them. We trade with them and we have worked together on climate change and nuclear arms reduction in both North Korea and Iran.
They have 20% of the worlds population with a growing middle class, growing numbers of educated people who will advance their country and hopefully the world along with it.
2
Don't get me wrong. Nothing would be better than to make China a true ally. But they never seem to behave like ally material.
What I'm talking about is their outright theft of technology, their disregard of patents and copyrights, and their wholesale takeover of the South China Sea.
In addition, thanks to our wily President, China is far more of a threat than ever before because we have fled the field in global matters, and sacrificed pretty much 100% of our standing economically and diplomatically while China wisely takes up his slack.
Making China, and of course Russia (oil based economy) great again.
So much winning.
93
I think the Chinese look at this as an investment into their own National Security, by keeping their enemies or rivals close to them.
This company has been stealing our technology, spying on us and paying us money to get access again is in their best interest. This is a stupid and clueless move, regardless of the money they are paying, it's worth to them.
Naieve and very foolish on our part, dangerous to our national security.
I'm wondering if Wilbur was asleep at the table or maybe he had "Mr. Ed" doing all the talking for him.
74
ZTE & China give the US nothing, and we relax sanctions on a company that is a threat to our national security.
Qui bono? Well, Trump got a big, Chinese backed development deal in asia a couple weeks ago, and China just granted Ivanka some more trademarks.
I mean, the corruption is so bold-faced it's astounding. We are doing worse than ever in confronting China's abuses, while enriching the Trump clan...Where is the coequal elected branch of government, where is our US Congress? Shame on them for selling us out over and over again for power politics and moneyed interests.
233
Paging the Emoluments Clause. Although I'm sure the kids didn't tell dad about their projects...and anyway, the prez can't have a conflict of interest. Only 13 Angry Dems can do that.
10
“where is our US Congress”
They’re cowards quaking in their boots lest their Dear Leader directs the circus floodlights towards them. Look how he animated all the Sunday patriots in rancor by redefining the narrative of the protesting NFL players.
9
Nothing? From the article: "The Commerce Department said that ZTE had agreed to pay a $1 billion fine, replace its board and senior leadership, and allow the United States to more closely inspect the company by effectively having a handpicked compliance team embedded inside the firm."
A bargain for CCP. Now it is US consumers to decide whether they go with Trump or with Senators. ZTE can assemble phones but some US consumers (as they are the main customers of ZTE phones) have to buy them. I believe Chinese phone makers do not report with enough detail or honesty whether they make money with smartphones. Huawei reports nothing of value as it is owned by ‘workers’. My view is Huawei, as well as ZTE, use smartphone market to spread their names, I.e. somehow peddling the image of legitimacy among consumers abroad. Hence, losses are not losses. I do not buy those phones even if they carry a good user value which is created by a willing subsidy ultimately paid by CCP.
10
So let me get this straight. ZTE shells out 1.5 billion dollars, that's 1 billion in fines and 500 million towards a Trump Organization Indonesia project, and they are cleared to resume business with the U.S.?
What a great deal for ZTE, China and Trump.
That makes the rest of us citizens chumps.
Am I the only one who feels this way?
309
No Larry you are not alone. Next up North Korea will have an embassy in the US as a thank you for the Trump - Kim photo shoot.
26
The South won't likely appreciate diplomatic recognition of the North. More work to be done.
You are so right. Our president works for himself and if it hurts the American people that is whipped cream on his two scoops.
19
For a bunch of America-Firsters this gang of thieves is awfully concerned about saving Chinese jobs.
One would have thought otherwise, that this administration would take the stand that every administration since Clinton couldn't, or wouldn't, which would be to stop the wholesale theft of our intellectual property and technology, punish severely the blatant violations of our technology regulations, and along the way make it clear that the USA is a formidable force to be reckoned with, despite the arrogance of the Chinese government.
Guess not. Seems like all it takes is a dozen or so trademark approvals for Ivanka and a $500 million Chinese state-sponsored investment in a Trump-branded real estate project somewhere.
That this most corrupt administration is selling us out comes as no surprise. What's insulting is that they are selling us out so cheap.
162
"... stop the wholesale theft of our intellectual property and technology ..."
Yes, we need to stop China from stealing our technology, such as the "Chinese Remainder Theorem" used in RSA signing and decryption.
A woman can not be half pregnant.
ZTE either is a national security risk, or it is not. ZTE phones are not sold on US military bases.
The ZTE warning was that through typical monthly android security patch updates, ZTE could include code to spy on mobile users, & send data through ZTE to the Chinese government.
Americans who buy ZTE phones simply want their reasonably high spec offerings that are sold at a very affordable price.
The truth is that consumers understand there is no expectation of privacy online. Personal data collection by mobile and internet companies is a fact of life... Some companies are better than other at restricting data collection. Many consumers view their data collection & use by compsnies like Google and Apple as a fair exchange for a plethora of online tools that are free to use. Tools from Google include about everything: email accounts, maps, calendar, word processor, spreadsheet, personal digital assistants, to afford content like music streaming services, books, etc.
As long as data collection isn't used for identity theft, most consumers don't really care where their data goes (ie. Nothing interesting to see here folks).... A cheap, quality ZTE phone is enough of an appeasement.
I appreciate the online privacy effort of the European Union. North American government is quite happy to do very little to protect consumer privacy... And Western gov't online data collection is as bad as any China privacy threat.
26
The theft of intellectual property rights and a security threat is a phony argument. American companies sell their products to Chinese companies with all of the agreements that entails. This is how capitalism works. The only threat I see as viable is the one to the worth of American products vs Chinese products. The Chinese are going to win this war and making up phony arguments isn't going to stop them. One need only look at the phenomenal progress the Chinese have made over the last few years in everything from trains to roads to infrastructure to see how far we will be behind.
23
The theft and transfer of intellectual property is part of doing business in China. Innovation is not a natural product of a country without free speech. In its absence the taking of other countries’ work is the only option that remains. It follows that the products produced from those stolen designs are inferior, especially in an environment where corner-cutting is considered a virtue.
12
When it is not just industrial espionage by companies, but the government of China itself that is the intellectual property thief, this is far from a phony argument.
8
Americans want cheap, shiny products and China delivers. If Americans weren't so materialistic and addicted to buying the latest of anything as a measure of our status we wouldn't be in this pickle.
This deal represents a new low for an administration floundering on the global stage. We are aiding and abetting an enemy that illegally supplied goods to our enemies breaking multinational bans prohibiting those sales. All the while penalizing our trading partners and allies in Mexico, Canada and the EU with mindless tariffs.
If the only criterion of advantageous trade relationships is how they benefit our enemies, their foreign workers and, the Trump organization why not open negotiations with Russia and Iran?
97
I'm amazed that you used credibility and Trump in the same sentence and did it with out an lol.
5
Look guys I know it’s tough for Dems to understand when you instinctively hate everything Trump does. But here is a bigger picture at play. You threaten China by showing you can kill one of its biggest companies. Under a half legitimate presence. You make their President call you for a favor.
What does that buy you? Well you have a favor and more credibility. Which is critical when it comes to N. Korea, our biggest threat. Our max pressure campaign is nice and all but it is actually China’s campaign as 95% of all NKorean trade goes through China. And the only reason China is enforcing sanctions against NKorea is because they are taking us seriously this time. Credibility is key and Trump knows this. Obama in comparison had none especially when he let hundreds of kids get gassed foaming at the mouth on video for the world to see, crossing his own red line and doing nothing. That’s why he was a complete failure foreign policy wise.
17
President Obama made a deal with the Russians to get rid off Chemical weapons in Syria. The Syrians have already used them at least twice since President Trump was elected and the Syrians have won the war on his watch which was Putin's desired outcome.
China, like NK wants US troops off the Korean peninsula.
President Reagan called the Soviet Union the evil empire. He never guaranteed Gorbachev, wealth and power to negotiate nuclear arms reduction.
31
You are suggesting that extortion and corporate hostage taking should be endorsed by the US government. Moral issues aside, we have a lot more to lose than to win at this game. When the gloves come off, this will hurt everyone, but we have the most to lose in this fight.
40
The Trump Administration announced yesterday that is it no longer talking about "maximum pressure" on NK. China is playing rope a dope with the US. It will get help in allowing ZTE to continue operating in return for a nominal fine and a private "promise" of tougher sanctions on NK. How long do you think that promise will last?
Trump, the self proclaimed great negotiator has just been taken to the cleaners by the Chinese. They know they are dealing with a rube. Heaven help America when it comes to Trump cutting a "deal" with NK. He's already given away the farm to Kim.
60
There is something really fishy about this deal. (The $500 million the Chinese plowed into Trump's development project in Jakarta?) Maybe when Donald Trump is impeached and the Republican Party no longer controls Congress, the Justice Department can go in and look at why this company is getting special Treatment from Donald Trump. Nothing about this deal makes any sense.
214
Ivanka got her Chinese trademarks - that was what trump bargained for.
1
It is my understanding that another Chinese linked group is also ponying up another 500 million. That makes a billion dollar bribe to the Trump organization.
3
Yes. The fine serves as cover for the real explanation: the money paid to Trump's Jakarta development. Treason. But GOP 'leadership' is likely on the take as well, to keep them quiet. So even if Dems take Congress (big IF) and do impeach, Senate will not convict. There is no imaginable crime of his for which they will convict. Any evidence found will be labeled 'fake.'
1
When Trump picks winners and losers by scrapping multilateral trade treaties and getting personally involved with bilateral negotiations with foreign governments, Trump will win and most others will lose. It's Art of the Deal on steroids with the full economic and military power of the United States used as leverage for his personal gain.
116
Trump gets personally involved by accepting money from foreign governments and then doing them favors. China gave trademark approvals to Ivanka and gave Trump a $500 million state sponsored investment in a Trump real estate deal in Indonesia. If you look at each of his decisions in international matters they link back to money he has received. Trump's art of the deal is about lining his and his family's pockets. There is no geopolitical goal and no gain for America.
66
Wondered how much of the $1B will end up in Trump Enterprises.
22
Yes, United States is being used as leverage forTrump's personal gain. Also, we are being used as his risk buffer. Trump has a history of multiple bankruptcies and of stiffing his creditors; this time it will be the U.S. taxpayers paying the piper.
14
A Chinese company, backed by the Chinese government, taking jobs from Americans, is stealing US technology and selling it to the Iranians and the North Koreans. So naturally Trump has a soft spot for them. Couldn't have anything to do with the Chinese state-owned company which came through with hundreds of millions of dollars in loans, some of which will go to facilitate the construction of Trump-branded properties in Indonesia. Someone needs to explain to me why this guy and his enablers and apologists have the audacity to question anyone's patriotism.
212
What jobs are they taking from Americans? The US produces a tiny fraction of smart phones. US chip makers on the other hand produce lots of chips.
We would lose more jobs by not keeping ZTE in business.
China understands this threat now that President Trump and the US Congress has decided to make an issue of it. Expect China to develop a very large chip manufacturing base in response to this dustup and more threats by Congress.
3
Where do you suppose the engineering for iPhones is done?
"We would lose more jobs by not keeping ZTE in business?!!!!!!"
In the alternate universe created by alternate facts, ZTE helps create American jobs. Oh, and Putin is really our friend.
Thanks for answering Chazak's question. Text book example of how Trump enablers and apologists twist reality.