Trump’s Delay of Xi Visit Echoes Pattern of Last-Minute Changes

President Donald Trump has long used last-minute switches on foreign travel and meetings with heads of state as he seeks to gain a diplomatic upper hand and keep foreign partners on their toes.

Trump’s request this week to delay a planned trip to China initially set for March 31 to April 2 is the latest example in a pattern of postponing or calling off high-profile meetings that he decides don’t suit his interests.

Throughout his first and second terms, he has enjoyed keeping allies and adversaries guessing about his travel plans. A few times, he’s changed his mind about his ...