Beijing also seems willing to engage in diplomatic channels. China's US embassy confirmed last week that it is inviting foreign dignitaries — some of them American — to a September 3 ceremony in Beijing commemorating the 80th anniversary of the conclusion of World War II.

Aides to Donald Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping have discussed a potential meeting between the leaders during a trip by the U.S. president to Asia later this year, according to two people familiar with the plans.