Trump Hints at TikTok Deal Progress Amid China Discussions

In a significant development for the embattled short-video platform TikTok, President Donald Trump has indicated that a substantial agreement regarding its U.S. operations is on the cusp of completion, or perhaps even finalized, following recent high-level discussions with China.

Speaking to reporters, the President revealed that the proposed deal would see American tech giants Oracle and retail behemoth Walmart playing pivotal roles.

"I think we're very close to a deal," Trump stated, hinting at a resolution to the ongoing saga that has seen TikTok's future in the United States hanging in the balance due to national security concerns.

The core of the agreement, as outlined by Trump, appears to revolve around the creation of a new, independent company that would control TikTok's operations within the U.S.

Crucially, the President emphasized the imperative for American companies to hold a controlling stake in this new entity. This insistence on American ownership has been a consistent theme from the White House, driven by concerns that user data could be accessed by the Chinese government through TikTok's parent company, ByteDance.

While specific details remain under wraps, the involvement of Oracle and Walmart suggests a complex arrangement designed to satisfy Washington's demands for data security and corporate oversight.

Oracle, known for its expertise in cloud computing and data management, could provide the technological infrastructure to ensure U.S. user data is kept secure on American servers. Walmart's participation, meanwhile, could leverage its vast consumer reach and e-commerce capabilities, integrating TikTok more deeply into the American market.

This potential breakthrough comes after months of escalating tensions and threats of a complete ban on TikTok in the U.S., stemming from executive orders issued by President Trump.

The administration has repeatedly cited national security risks, arguing that the personal data of millions of Americans could be compromised if it remains under the direct or indirect control of a Chinese company. A finalized deal would represent a major diplomatic and corporate achievement, potentially averting a ban and reshaping the landscape of global tech partnerships.

The announcement underscores the intricate dance between geopolitics, technology, and economic interests, as the U.S.

seeks to safeguard its digital sovereignty while allowing popular platforms to continue operating under new, stricter conditions. Further details on the structure, governance, and financial aspects of the deal are anticipated as the parties work to solidify the agreement.