Trump urges Xi Jinping to free HK pro-democracy media tycoon Jimmy Lai

The Guardian - World NewsCenter-LeftEN 2 min read 100% complete by Agence France-PresseDecember 16, 2025 at 02:40 AM

AI Summary

medium article 2 min

Donald Trump has appealed to Chinese President Xi Jinping for the release of Jimmy Lai, a pro-democracy media tycoon in Hong Kong convicted on national security charges. Trump stated he raised the issue with Xi, citing Lai's age and health. Lai, the founder of Apple Daily, was found guilty after already being jailed since 2020. Marco Rubio and other groups have condemned the conviction, arguing it demonstrates China's suppression of free speech in Hong Kong. Lai's daughter has also appealed for his release, citing his deteriorating health and desire to focus on family and faith. Lai's conviction is part of a broader crackdown in Hong Kong following the 2019 protests.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Marco Rubio 40% Donald Trump ×350% Hong Kong ×250% Xi Jinping ×260% Jimmy Lai ×780%

Keywords

jimmy lai 100% hong kong 90% national security charges 80% xi jinping 70% pro-democracy 70% press freedom 60% donald trump 50% china 50% human rights 50% apple daily 40%