Trump says China being 'vicious' by hitting US farmers with tariffs

AP/Jae C. Hong

President Donald Trump on Wednesday lashed out at China in what is the latest escalation in the trade spat between the world's two largest economies.

"China is targeting our farmers, who they know I love & respect, as a way of getting me to continue allowing them to take advantage of the U.S.," Trump tweeted, "They are being vicious in what will be their failed attempt. We were being nice - until now! China made $517 Billion on us last year."

Trump's tweet comes less than 24 hours after the US Department of Agriculture provided $12 billion of support for farmers and ranchers hurt by tariffs imposed by China.

This story is developing.