President Trump and Xi Jinping will discuss AI risks in Beijing this week, but neither country is willing to slow the AI arms race. Both nations are rapidly developing AI-powered weapons and autonomous systems, creating a dangerous technological competition that threatens global stability. The high-stakes race has left policymakers wary of imposing safeguards that might give the other side a strategic advantage.

US officials have boasted AI helps target selection in the Iran conflict, while China showcased autonomous drones during its military parade. Academic and governmental cooperation has faced political blowback, with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent criticizing efforts to engage Chinese researchers. Differing priorities complicate potential solutions - the US focuses on existential risks, China on social stability.

Previous attempts at AI cooperation between the superpowers have stalled despite scholars continuing informal discussions. The Trump administration explicitly names "winning the race" against China as a reason to loosen regulations. This technological competition has created a paradox where both nations recognize AI risks but remain unwilling to constrain development, potentially creating unprecedented security vulnerabilities.