US families ramp up efforts for loved ones’ release from China ahead of Xi’s visit
Chen Youlin, a Chinese-American scientist, travelled back to China in October 2024 for a month-long holiday, including to celebrate his mother’s 80th birthday. As he prepared to leave, authorities arrested him at the airport in Beijing. For more than 670 days, his wife, Rong Yufang, and other family members have not been able to see or speak with him. “Sometimes I realise I can no longer clearly…
American families are intensifying their efforts to secure the release of loved ones detained in China as Chinese President Xi Jinping prepares to visit Washington next week. Chen Youlin, a Chinese-American scientist, was arrested at Beijing airport in October 2024, sparking concern from his wife and daughter. His wife, Rong Yufang, has expressed deep sadness over not being able to communicate with her detained father, stating that his absence has created a "prison" for their family.
Other US citizens, including Min Zin, Dawn Michelle Hunt and Nelson Wells Jr., have faced similar detention, with varying allegations. While Chen and Zin are held on national security-related charges, Hunt and Wells Jr. were convicted on drug offenses over a decade ago. Families of these detainees are reaching out to the US administration to pressure Beijing for their loved ones' release.
Some opt for a discreet approach, while others resort to public advocacy when private measures fail. The US government has designated these individuals as "wrongfully detained," prompting officials to prioritize their release. The State Department's Special Presidential Envoy for Hostage Affairs has condemned hostage diplomacy in the US-China relationship, but families remain persistent in their pursuit of justice.
Written by urgent.news from South China Morning Post's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
This story
This is one outlet's version. Read the fullest account.
