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Hopes for the release of Hong Kong media tycoon Jimmy Lai have surged following U.S. President Donald Trump’s return to office, according to Lai’s son, Sebastien, who spoke in Washington. Lai, founder of the now-defunct Apple Daily, has pleaded not guilty to conspiracy charges under Hong Kong’s national security law, which critics argue suppresses dissent.
Trump previously vowed to secure Lai’s freedom, stating he would "100%" get him out of China. Sebastien Lai noted that Trump was the first U.S. president to mention his father by name, emphasizing the bipartisan support for Lai’s case. He expressed increased optimism for his father’s release as advocacy efforts continue.
Lai, 77, remains in solitary confinement in Hong Kong, with concerns about his declining health. His supporters have met with U.S. State Department officials and are set to engage with the White House National Security Council. However, neither the White House nor the State Department has commented on the meetings.
The Chinese government has dismissed concerns about Lai’s health as “slanderous,” while Beijing continues to defend the national security law. Lai’s case remains a point of contention between Washington and Beijing, intensifying diplomatic tensions.
With Trump back in office and renewed U.S. attention on Lai’s imprisonment, supporters believe momentum for his release is growing.
