The U.S. Needs a Different China Strategy
Revive alliances, strengthen the American economy and work cautiously with Beijing where necessary.
Hong Kong contemplates its future.
Photographer: Roy Liu/Bloomberg
China’s decision to impose new anti-subversion legislation on Hong Kong is a mistake — a blow to the city’s autonomy that will undermine its economic success. And it is further proof, if any were needed, that the U.S. needs a smarter, more effective strategy to deal with the People’s Republic.
On Friday, President Donald Trump promised targeted sanctions and trade restrictions in response to China’s move and to a long list of existing grievances. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo had already declared Hong Kong no longer “sufficiently autonomous” under U.S. law to qualify for the special trade status it’s enjoyed until now.