Bipartisan senators in Washington are preparing bills that could impact President Donald Trump's trade negotiations with China. These initiatives focus on human rights and military issues.
Senators Launch Legislative Assault
According to *Reuters*, three bills will be introduced this week by members of both parties targeting China's human rights abuses, pressure on Taiwan, and overseas crackdowns on activists. The initiatives come just two weeks before Trump's set deadline, when top U.S. and Chinese officials are expected to meet in Sweden.
Trump's Trade Goals Under Threat
The first bill, led by Senator Jeff Merkley, proposes a ban on entry to the U.S. for any Chinese official involved in the forced repatriation of Uyghurs. The second bill, supported by Senator John Curtis, is aimed at protecting Taiwan and promises U.S. support to Latin American countries that maintain diplomatic relations with Taipei. The third proposal, driven by Senator Dan Sullivan, addresses what is referred to as transnational repression.
Escalation of Trade and Military Issues
Merkley stated, "Regardless of who is in the White House, America's values of freedom and human rights must remain at the heart of our global leadership." Meanwhile, Trump insists national security will not be compromised, despite his attempts to build relations with Chinese President Xi Jinping. Critics worry that Nvidia's recent decision to resume sales of its chips to China undermines efforts to limit China's military and surveillance capabilities.
Thus, the bipartisan initiatives from senators illustrate a growing tension between the desire for trade agreements and the need for human rights and national security.
