US Lifts Some Hong Kong Sanctions Imposed by Trump, Autonomy Status Unchanged The US decision to partially lift sanctions against Hong Kong, imposed by former President Donald Trump in 2020, has been met with mixed reactions.
Beijing views the move as a step toward implementing understandings reached during recent trade talks, while critics see it as a capitulation to China's tightening grip on the territory.
The removal of some sanctions and trade restrictions may be seen as a victory for Chinese President Xi Jinping, who has sought to reassert Beijing's control over Hong Kong.