Trump’s Commitment to Jimmy Lai’s Freedom

President Donald Trump stated on Thursday that he is determined to do everything possible to assist Hong Kong media entrepreneur Jimmy Lai, who has been imprisoned under China’s strict “national security law” since December 2020. According to Trump, this measure seems aimed at stifling the democratic movement in Hong Kong.

“I’m going to do everything I can to save him,” Trump expressed during an interview on Fox News Radio. He emphasized that Lai is a respected individual and a good person.

Trump reflected on President Xi’s reluctance to intervene, noting that Xi could easily release Lai if he chose to. “You can understand that President Xi isn’t exactly excited about doing that,” he added during his conversation with host Brian Kilmeade.

Kilmeade reminded Trump of his previous assurance that he would “100%” guarantee Lai’s freedom.

In response, Trump clarified, “I didn’t say I’d save him. I said 100%, I’m going to lift it up.”

Lai, who is 77 years old, is facing serious health issues and has been in solitary confinement for over 500 days. The Chinese government has labeled him a traitor for allegedly collaborating with foreign forces to promote democracy in Hong Kong.

He has also faced charges for producing “inflammatory material” via his well-known newspaper, Apple Daily, which was shut down by authorities in June 2021.

Currently, Lai is nearing the conclusion of a lengthy trial that began in late 2023. In a recent court session, he received medication and a heart monitor after his lawyer reported that he had been experiencing bouts of weakness. Observers noted that he has lost significant weight during his prolonged isolation.

“Given his age and health, yeah, he’ll die in prison,” remarked Lai’s son, Sebastian, in an interview with the BBC at the start of the trial.

Officials in Hong Kong have maintained that Lai is receiving appropriate nutrition and medical care, pushing back against claims from foreign media that aim to sway public opinion regarding his treatment.

As the trial enters its final stage, prosecutors have accused Lai of conspiring with foreign governments, particularly the U.S. under Trump’s administration, to incite sanctions or other hostile actions against China.

The Chinese government has strongly dismissed appeals from the U.S., the U.K. (where Lai is considered a citizen), and other nations for Lai’s release. A spokeswoman for the Chinese embassy stated, “We strongly oppose foreign powers using judicial cases to interfere in China’s internal matters and undermine Hong Kong’s rule of law.”

Li added that Lai will face punishment as a “key orchestrator and participant in destabilizing activities in Hong Kong.”