In recent developments, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent has asserted the necessity for China to keep its promises made during the summit with President Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping. The summit, which took place on October 30th, aimed to address a critical issue impacting American lives—the opioid crisis fueled by fentanyl trafficking. China has allegedly committed to taking decisive action against chemicals used in fentanyl production. But let’s not hold our breath just yet.
What’s worth highlighting here is the justice Secretary Bessent is envisioning—a crackdown so fierce that it’s supposed to halt the opioids crisis in its tracks. Yet, the reality leaves room for caution. China’s track record with promises to foreign leaders might mirror a thrilling but ultimately fictional spy novel. It’s all suspense and intrigue until you realize you’ve only been reading a poorly written script filled with empty promises.
In an unprecedented diplomatic move, FBI Director Kash Patel visited Beijing. Having a representative land there was touted as a historic engagement. Midway between cautious optimism and a collective groan, Patel returned with tales of boosted hope. President Trump’s relentless efforts, it was claimed, solidified an agreement that will halt the chemical supply chain aiding the Mexican drug cartels in fentanyl production, effectively drying up the well.
Director Patel expressed confidence in the effectiveness of these discussions, even suggesting that the tide had already begun turning with immediate results saving American lives. There’s no doubt that getting agreements with China is a Herculean task. However, securing actual compliance from China is an entirely different challenge, particularly when past attempts have shown little to no follow-through.
Elsewhere, Patel delved into issues regarding Chinese espionage and interference, breaking from the safe confines of mere diplomacy to acknowledge the complicated discord between the two powers. Anyone paying attention would know that the mutual distrust signals an unsettling but familiar reminder of perilous waters being navigated with a paper boat.
The ultimate verdict on these diplomatic efforts remains pending. For now, Americans can only hope for sincerity from across the Pacific. While some might herald it as the cleansing of America’s pestilent drug problem, others remain skeptical, waiting for actions, not words, to steer the course. For in the diplomatic poker game, too often we’re dealt a losing hand by masters of the bluff.
