China: A Chinese-born American seismologist has been detained in China for nearly two years and is set to face trial on espionage charges, according to his wife, US lawmakers and hostage advocacy groups, adding fresh strain to already tense US-China relations.
The scientist, Youlin Chen, 54, is a US citizen who lives in Boston and has published US government-funded research on detecting North Korean nuclear tests.
US designates scientist as wrongfully detained
According to his wife, Yufang Rong, and US officials, Secretary of State Marco Rubio designated Chen as “wrongfully detained” in March, making his release a priority for the US government.
His family said the designation was not publicly announced to allow diplomatic efforts to continue behind the scenes.
A US official familiar with the case said Washington remains focused on securing Chen’s release.
Family fears closed-door trial
Rong said she fears her husband will not receive a fair trial and believes the proceedings will be held behind closed doors.
She also expressed concern that Chinese authorities had already decided the outcome before the trial begins.
Under Chinese law, espionage offences can carry severe penalties, including life imprisonment or, in the most serious cases, the death penalty.
China rejects US allegations
Responding to questions about the case, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said China’s judicial authorities handle cases in accordance with the law and rejected claims of wrongful detention.
Hostage advocacy organisations estimate that Chen is among several Americans currently detained or prevented from leaving China under various legal measures.
The case comes as US President Donald Trump seeks to maintain stable relations with Beijing following last year’s trade tensions, with reports indicating that Chen’s detention has also been raised during high-level diplomatic discussions.