News media reported on July 16 that U.S. President Trump stated he believes China will soon impose the death penalty on individuals involved in the production and distribution of the drug fentanyl. He expressed optimism about reaching an agreement with Beijing on the issue of illegal drugs.
In response, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian addressed the matter at a regular press briefing on July 17, stating that China has repeatedly made it clear that fentanyl is an issue for the United States, not China, and that the responsibility lies with the U.S. itself. Lin criticized the U.S. for ignoring China’s goodwill and unilaterally imposing tariffs on fentanyl-related products from China, calling it a move that severely undermines bilateral dialogue and cooperation on drug control and seriously harms China’s interests.
“If the United States truly wants to cooperate with China,” Lin said, “it should face the facts and engage in dialogue with China on the basis of equality, mutual respect, and reciprocity.”
Source: Huanqiu Times, July 17, 2025
https://world.huanqiu.com/article/4NWzoplHsxp