China imposes sanctions on US government officials, NGO

China has announced sanctions against U.S. lawmakers, government officials, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in retaliation for Washington’s sanctions on Chinese and Hong Kong officials over allegations of “transnational repression” and actions undermining Hong Kong’s autonomy.

The U.S. had previously imposed sanctions on six officials, including Hong Kong’s Justice Secretary Paul Lam, Security Office Director Dong Jingwei, and former Police Commissioner Raymond Siu, accusing them of involvement in actions that threaten the city’s autonomy.

In response, China’s foreign affairs ministry stated, “In response to the U.S.’s illegal unilateral sanctions against Chinese officials in Hong Kong, China decided to impose sanctions on the U.S. Congress members, government officials, and heads of NGOs who acted egregiously on Hong Kong-related issues.”

The escalating tensions between the two nations extend beyond diplomatic measures, with the trade war intensifying. U.S. President Donald Trump recently authorized an investigation into national security risks posed by the country’s reliance on imported critical minerals, including cobalt, lithium, nickel, and rare-earth metals essential for manufacturing smartphones, electric vehicle batteries, and military equipment.

Trump emphasized that China must take the initiative in negotiations, stating, “The ball is in China’s court. China needs to make a deal with us. We don’t have to make a deal with them.” His remarks followed accusations that Beijing had backed out of a major deal with Boeing.

In a retaliatory move, China reportedly instructed its airlines to halt deliveries of Boeing jets and suspend purchases of aircraft-related equipment and parts from U.S. companies.

The Chinese government is also exploring ways to support airlines leasing Boeing jets facing increased costs due to the trade dispute.

Earlier, Chinese officials condemned the U.S. for violating international trade norms after Washington raised tariffs on Chinese goods to 245 percent.

China has vowed to resist what it describes as U.S. trade monopoly, declaring its readiness to “fight till its end” in the ongoing economic confrontation.

The latest sanctions and counter-sanctions reflect a hardening stance on both sides, with no immediate resolution in sight.

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