US-China Relations & Potential Conflict - The US and China are perceived to be dangerously close to war due to potential missteps and lack of open communication between their militaries [1][2] - Establishing a hotline between the US and Chinese militaries could build trust and prevent conflict [3] - A previous hotline agreement to limit cyber escalation was not effective as China never answered it [4] - Preventing a conflict with China would be a significant achievement for President Trump [8][13] - Avoiding a war between the US and China is crucial [15] Military Preparedness & National Security - Concerns about the US military being underprepared for a conflict with China are considered overblown; the US military in the Indo-Pacific is believed to be capable of winning a war [10] - Competing priorities can distract from vital national interests, such as the relationship with China; drug trafficking in Venezuela is less important [12] - Economic security and national security are closely linked, particularly regarding critical minerals and rare earths [7] Trade & Diplomacy - Trade conversations and military engagement are parallel but related [6][7] - President Trump has a deal with Australia to mitigate risks related to critical minerals [8] - President Trump is considered a good negotiator and could potentially achieve a surprising deal with China [14]