The fast-worsening trade war between the United States and China — the planet’s premier geopolitical powers, whose economies are intricately entwined — threatens to wreak severe damage on both nations and will send shockwaves worldwide.

China is looking to mend a strained trading relationship with the European Union, the last open major market for its products, to weather a trade war with the United States. But diplomats and analysts say breaking a prolonged stalemate won't be easy.