Topic: Michael Pillsbury

China expert Michael Pillsbury analyzes the risk for President Xi Jinping in the ongoing trade war, noting that the Chinese leader faces internal pressure to appear tough against American demands. China is reportedly attempting to pivot its economy toward domestic consumption and the "Global South" to mitigate the impact of U.S. tariffs. Pillsbury warns that China often uses stalling tactics in negotiations, promising concessions they do not intend to honor.

Dr. Michael Pillsbury discussed reports that the University of Texas and U.S. agencies provided support to the Wuhan Institute of Virology for "gain of function" research on coronaviruses. The discussion centers on Dr. Shi Zhengli, known as the "Bat Lady," and allegations that the research involved making viruses more infectious to humans, potentially involving proteins identical to HIV.

Defense expert Michael Pillsbury tells Tucker Carlson that Chinese leadership views President Trump as a brilliant tactician playing "three-dimensional chess." Pillsbury claims Beijing is concerned by Trump's allegations of economic warfare and forced technology transfers.