In a recent editorial, the Global Times, a nationalistic English-language tabloid in China, raised alarming concerns about the fragile relationship between the United States and China, warning of a potential war between the two countries. The editorial, titled "Chinese, US military talks a 'positive signal,' but this is just the first step," highlighted the risks associated with a minor incident escalating tensions to uncontrollable levels.

The warning comes in the wake of a face-to-face meeting between Chinese President Xi Jinping and President Joe Biden in San Francisco during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation forum. The meeting, which was seen as a crucial step in restoring normal communications between the two superpowers, aimed to prevent the escalating rivalry between the United States and China.

Despite the recent positive development of a video meeting between top military officials General Liu Zhenli of China and General Charles Q. Brown, chairman of the U.S. Joint Chiefs of Staff, the Global Times emphasized that the risk of direct military friction between the two countries has significantly increased. The tense situation arises in part due to the U.S. military's increased close-in reconnaissance of China's southeastern coast and its interference in the Taiwan Straits situation.

The editorial argued that the U.S. has not adequately respected China's "core interests and major concerns," which it alleges is the root cause of the escalating danger. The Global Times stressed the need for the U.S. to change its behavior and fully understand Beijing's key points during military exchanges, as failure to do so would perpetuate the risk of military confrontation.

This warning from the Global Times echoes previous ominous statements made by the publication, such as its claim in October that the U.S. is "inciting the risk of war on a global scale." It also criticized the U.S. earlier this year for its $80 million military financing program for Taiwan.

The potential consequences of a deteriorating relationship between the United States and China are of significant concern to the global community. As tensions continue to rise, all eyes remain on the actions and decisions made by both superpowers, in efforts to avoid a catastrophic military conflict.

Please note that the views expressed in the Global Times editorial do not necessarily reflect official policy in China. Newsweek has reached out to U.S. Central Command, the White House, and the U.S. Department of State for comment on the matter.