In response to US sanctions against Chinese officials, China has decided to impose sanctions on US officials, lawmakers, and NGO leaders, accusing them of interfering in Hong Kong affairs.
China-US: Tensions between China and the US continue to escalate over the Hong Kong issue. China has announced sanctions against US officials, lawmakers, and non-governmental organization (NGO) leaders for their perceived "poor performance" in Hong Kong affairs. This move is a direct response to the US imposing sanctions on six Chinese and Hong Kong officials accused of undermining the city's autonomy.
US-Imposed Sanctions
In March 2025, the US imposed sanctions on six Hong Kong and Chinese officials accused of promoting actions that limited Hong Kong's autonomy. These included senior officials such as Secretary of Justice Paul Lam, Security Bureau Director Dong Jingwei, and former Police Commissioner Raymond Siu. These officials were accused of taking steps to suppress civil rights and freedoms in Hong Kong. This action prompted China's retaliatory measures.
China's Response
China's Foreign Ministry issued a statement asserting that the US interfered in Hong Kong's affairs, violating international law. The Ministry stated that the Chinese government decided to sanction these US leaders and NGOs whose activities are believed to have harmed Hong Kong's autonomy. This response is justified by China under its "Foreign Sanctions Countermeasure Law."
Growing Dispute Between China and the US
A deep dispute continues between China and the US regarding Hong Kong. Relations between the two countries are already strained due to a trade war and other issues. This retaliatory action over Hong Kong is likely to further exacerbate tensions.
The US alleges that China is undermining Hong Kong's freedom and autonomy, while China claims the US is engaging in unacceptable interference. China has made it clear that any foreign interference in Hong Kong's affairs is against its sovereignty and will not be tolerated.
China's Accusation: Violation of International Law
The Chinese Foreign Minister stated in his declaration that the US violated principles of international law by interfering in Hong Kong's affairs. He said this action violates China's sovereign rights, and China has responded accordingly.
