Trump Praises Xi Jinping to Free Jailed Hong Kong Typhoon Jimmy Lai

US President Donald Trump raised the issue of jailed Hong Kong media magnate Jimmy Lai during his recent meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping in South Korea, urging for his release in what he described as a “positive step” for US-China relations, according to officials familiar with the discussion.

Trump’s direct appeal marks one of the most high-profile interventions in the case of Jimmy Lai, a 77-year-old publishing tycoon whose trial has become emblematic of China’s tightening grip on Hong Kong’s freedoms under the national security law.

Sources familiar with the talks said that Trump expressed concern over Lai’s deteriorating health and well-being, emphasizing that his release could improve China’s global image. While Trump did not propose a specific deal, he reportedly spent a few minutes highlighting Lai’s case during a brief but meaningful exchange with Xi.

“President Trump brought up Jimmy Lai’s case, just as he said he would,” confirmed a senior US official. “Both leaders discussed the issue respectfully and constructively.”

Lai, the founder of the now-closed pro-democracy tabloid Apple Daily, has been held in solitary confinement at Hong Kong’s Stanley Prison for more than 1,700 days. He faces charges of conspiracy to collude with foreign forces and publishing seditious material, accusations that human rights advocates have condemned as politically motivated.

Trump had previously vowed during his campaign that he would “100% get Lai out of China,” portraying himself as a champion of press freedom and human rights. His renewed push for Lai’s release reflects ongoing diplomatic tension between Washington and Beijing, especially over issues related to democracy in Hong Kong.

Lai’s son, Sebastien Lai, expressed gratitude toward Trump’s efforts, saying, “Knowing President Trump’s reputation as the Liberator in Chief, I pray that his continued support will convince President Xi to free my father before it’s too late.”

Meanwhile, Chinese officials have maintained that Lai’s prosecution is a domestic judicial matter, rejecting any foreign interference. A spokesperson for China’s embassy in Washington stated that Lai’s actions had “gravely undermined Hong Kong’s prosperity and stability,” adding that “any attempt to interfere with the judicial process will not succeed.”

Beyond the sensitive human rights discussion, Trump described his meeting with Xi as “highly productive,” citing progress in trade, rare earth exports, and efforts to combat fentanyl production. The leaders reportedly avoided discussions about Taiwan during the 90-minute meeting.

As Jimmy Lai awaits his verdict following a lengthy national security trial, his case continues to draw international attention. Rights groups and Western governments have repeatedly called for his release, arguing that his detention symbolizes the erosion of free speech in Hong Kong.