A media freedom organization has called on US President Donald Trump to advocate for the release of Jimmy Lai, the founder of Hong Kong’s Apple Daily newspaper, during his upcoming meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping. Reporters Without Borders expressed concern over Lai’s deteriorating health after over 1,950 days in detention under Hong Kong’s National Security Law imposed by Beijing. Trump is set to visit China from May 13 to May 15, the first visit by a sitting US president in nearly a decade.
The advocacy group emphasized the urgency of securing Lai’s freedom, highlighting his dedication to democracy and press freedom. Aleksandra Bielakowska, Advocacy Manager at RSF Asia-Pacific, urged Trump to take concrete action during his visit to China. Lai was sentenced to 20 years in prison in February 2026, along with six other Apple Daily staff members facing prison terms of 6 to 10 years amid Beijing’s crackdown on independent press in Hong Kong.
Since his detention in December 2020, Lai has reportedly faced harsh conditions, including solitary confinement, leading to health deterioration and significant weight loss. The RSF noted that the Hong Kong government has prosecuted 28 journalists since 2020, with eight currently in detention. Journalists in Hong Kong are subjected to various forms of harassment, surveillance, and threats, both online and offline.
Recently, over 100 bipartisan members of the US Congress urged Trump to raise Lai’s case with Xi Jinping, citing the activist’s declining health at 78 years old. The plea comes amidst growing concerns over the treatment of journalists and press freedom in Hong Kong.
