Trump 'not optimistic' about securing Jimmy Lai's release from CCP prison
President Donald Trump on Friday said he is “not optimistic” about securing the release of jailed Hong Kong democracy advocate Jimmy Lai, signaling dim prospects for one of the highest-profile human rights cases raised during his recent visit to China.
TL;DR
- President Trump expressed pessimism about freeing Hong Kong democracy advocate Jimmy Lai.
- Trump raised Lai's case with Chinese President Xi Jinping, who was unreceptive.
- Lai, founder of the shuttered Apply Daily, faces charges under Hong Kong's national security law.
- Rights groups and Western governments view Lai's case as politically motivated and a sign of eroded freedoms.
- Trump also discussed the release of imprisoned Pastor Ezra Jin with Xi.