For one of the rare times in recent history, the Chinese Communist Party has not been in lockstep across its branches in external activities.

While rhetoric in 2025 was toned down from outwardly aggressive to friendly and businesslike, the military has been more provocative than ever.

The direct threats to America and its allies in the East seem to disconnect with China’s need for economic partners. Listen as Terri Wu describes what may be causing the schism, and what it means for us in the United States.

Views expressed in this episode are opinions of the host and guests and do not necessarily reflect the views of The Epoch Times.

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Terri Wu is a Washington-based freelance reporter for The Epoch Times, covering education and China-related issues. Send tips to [email protected].

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