Trump’s Military Academy Sold to Individual Linked to Chinese Intelligence

Recently, an investigation revealed that President Donald Trump’s former school, the New York Military Academy (NYMA), has been sold to someone with strong connections to a Chinese intelligence agency. Allen Lu Yuzon, the CEO of Guangua Education Group, reportedly acquired NYMA for an undisclosed sum, following its bankruptcy in 2015 for about $16 million.

Lu bought the academy from Vincent Motangan, CEO of Soo Fan Holdings. This acquisition raises eyebrows, especially in light of reports suggesting that the Chinese government views such educational institutions as potential platforms to cultivate relationships, particularly with figures associated with West Point Military Academy.

It’s worth noting that West Point has denied any ties to NYMA. Interestingly, neither NYMA, Lu, Motangan, nor the White House provided comments when approached.

A Potential Connection

Some analysts express concern that the acquisition of NYMA might serve as a stepping stone for the Chinese Communist Party’s (CCP) intelligence operations. The acquisition could help them forge connections with notable alumni, including figures like filmmaker Francis Ford Coppola or possibly even Trump himself. A former Chinese intelligence analyst remarked that a connection like this could lead to significant influence, especially if one of those individuals were to ascend to power.

Reports from the Chinese state media highlight that both Lu and Motangan hold multiple positions within the Chinese government, particularly in agencies tied to the United Front Work Division (UFWD). This division specializes in shaping political environments domestically and abroad, targeting technology access, and influencing other countries’ policies.

Lu and Motangan have been linked to various efforts designed to support China’s national goals, including technology transfers. They have also been seen participating in discussions related to talent recruitment aimed at gaining foreign technology, which has raised further national security concerns in the U.S.

Concerns About Security

NYMA has previously organized student visits to West Point and engaged with events at the Academy. However, West Point clearly stated it is not affiliated with NYMA and emphasized strict security protocols are in place to control access to its premises.

Interestingly, Trump’s relationship with NYMA seems significant to him—he attended the school from 1959 to 1964, and cadets from NYMA even participated in his inauguration ceremony.

Critics argue that this sale poses national security risks. Michael Lucci, CEO of a nonprofit focused on countering CCP influence, strongly criticized the transaction, insisting that such ties to the Chinese government should never exist within the American education system or near sensitive military institutions like West Point.