Trump Advocates for Jimmy Lai's Release Amid Ongoing Human Rights Concerns in Hong Kong

US President Donald Trump has publicly voiced his support for publisher Jimmy Lai, who has been imprisoned in Hong Kong for nearly five years, becoming a symbol of the pro-democracy movement in the region. In response to a recent ruling that found Lai guilty of alleged violations of the national security law, Trump expressed his sorrow for the situation, highlighting that Lai, an older man, is not well. Trump mentioned that he had a discussion with China's leader Xi Jinping regarding Lai's release, stating, "I feel so sorry" for the media mogul's plight. He recalled asking Xi to consider granting Lai freedom, indicating the seriousness of Lai's health condition, saying, "He is not doing well. Therefore, I made this request. We will see what happens." Lai, 78, was convicted by a court in Hong Kong for participating in conspiracies against the Beijing government and Hong Kong leadership. His sentence is set to be revealed in January, and he faces the possibility of life imprisonment. The court characterized Lai, who founded the pro-democracy newspaper Apple Daily, as attempting to undermine the Communist Party of China. Critics of the ruling argue that the legal proceedings are politically motivated and the charges against Lai are fabricated, claims that the Chinese government has firmly rejected. They argue that the enormity of the challenges faced by those advocating for democratic freedoms in Hong Kong has reached unprecedented levels under the national security law imposed by Beijing. Uncertainty lingers regarding the exact timing of Trump's conversation with Xi. According to reports from White House officials, Trump reportedly urged for Lai's release weeks ago during a meeting with Xi in South Korea. Notably, Trump promised during a campaign podcast in October 2024 to "get him out of there," further emphasizing his focus on Lai's situation. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has also condemned the ruling against Lai, stating that it solidifies laws enforced by Beijing to suppress anyone advocating for fundamental rights, including freedom of speech. Rubio noted the deteriorating health conditions Lai has faced during his lengthy incarceration, urging authorities to release him on humanitarian grounds. With a significant portion of Lai's nearly 1800 days in detention already completed, many voices both in the US and internationally are calling for increased attention to human rights violations in Hong Kong and the urgent need for the liberation of those unjustly imprisoned for their political beliefs. Related Sources: • Source 1 • Source 2