NPR News: 05-14-2026 5PM EDT

President Trump and China's Xi Jinping continued high-stakes talks in Beijing, amid U.S. domestic advances on ethanol fuels, a Boeing damages verdict, Border Patrol leadership changes during a government shutdown, and warnings about extreme heat for the 2026 World Cup. This NPR News Now roundup covers these disparate developments from May 14, 2026.

Trump-Xi Meetings Focus on Taiwan Tensions

After touring historic Beijing sites, Trump and Xi addressed Taiwan, which Xi called China's "most important issue." He warned the U.S. to "exercise caution," stating that missteps could "jeopardize ties entirely." China seeks eventual control over the democratic island, and Trump aims to discuss a delayed U.S. weapons package stalled due to Chinese pressure. Despite Beijing's hopes to reduce U.S. support, Secretary of State Marco Rubio affirmed the U.S. position remains unchanged. The leaders' second day of meetings, set for a leadership compound in Beijing, will cover trade, the war in Iran, and potential bilateral investments. These talks highlight ongoing frictions over Taiwan's status and broader U.S.-China relations.