China Imposes Sanctions on Eleven Americans for “Hong Kong-Related Issues”

China has imposed sanctions on eleven Americans for “behaving badly on Hong Kong-related issues.” On Friday, the Trump Administration sanctioned eleven Chinese and Hong Kong officials for roles they played imposing a controversial national security law. The new law, imposed by Beijing on Hong Kong, “criminalizes secession, subversion, terrorism, and collusion with foreign forces.” Many U.S. lawmakers, including President Trump, were openly critical of the decision which they claim restricts Hong Kong citizen’s political freedom. In an official statement, a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman said “the U.S. action was a blatant interference in Hong Kong’s affairs and China’s internal affairs. It was in serious violation of international law and basic norms governing international relations.” Hong Kong also said it “fully supports” China’s move and will “facilitate its enforcement.” Of the eleven Americans, six are U.S. lawmakers. They include Senators Marco Rubio and Ted Cruz who believe the sanctions are a ploy to distract from what’s happening over there.