Trump's aides are reportedly urging him to back Hong Kong protesters
Aides have been encouraging President Trump to voice his support for pro-democracy demonstrators in Hong Kong, but he has so far refused, several people familiar with the matter told Politico on Wednesday.
Under Chinese rule since 1997, Hong Kong is supposed to be governed under the "one country, two systems" policy, but protesters say Beijing is trying to assert more control over all aspects of life. China has accused the protesters of committing acts of terror.
People with knowledge of the matter told Politico Trump is only concerned with trade negotiations, and doesn't want to say anything negative about Chinese leader Xi Jinping. Trump also had a phone conversation with Xi prior to the G-20 summit in June, three people familiar with the call told Politico, and Trump promised Xi he would not condemn the Chinese government over a crackdown in Hong Kong, saying it was an internal matter.
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Trump tweeted on Wednesday evening that Xi is "a great leader who very much has the respect of his people," and if he "wants to quickly and humanely solve the Hong Kong problem, he can do it. Personal meeting?"
