US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has raised concerns about Chinese attempts to influence and interfere with the upcoming US elections, despite a previous commitment from Chinese leader Xi Jinping not to do so. Blinken made these remarks during an interview with CNN’s Kylie Atwood at the end of his three-day trip to China, where he met with top Chinese officials, including Xi.
During the interview, Blinken reiterated President Joe Biden’s message to Xi not to interfere in the 2024 US presidential elections. He expressed concern about China and other countries exploiting existing social divisions in the US for influence campaigns. Beijing has denied interfering in US elections, citing its principle of non-interference in other countries’ internal affairs.
Blinken also warned China about its support for Russia’s defense industry, which is enabling Russia to continue its military actions in Ukraine. He emphasized that the US would take further action if China continues to support Russia, in addition to existing sanctions on Chinese entities and individuals.
Furthermore, Blinken defended the American right to protest, addressing recent pro-Palestinian protests on college campuses in the US. While acknowledging instances of antisemitic rhetoric at some of these protests, he emphasized the importance of freedom of expression in democracies.
The situation is ongoing, and updates will be provided as the story develops.