U.S. President Donald Trump is known for frequently altering his statements and policies. While imposing significant tariffs on countries like India, he appears to be favoring China. Trump has decided to grant visas to 600,000 Chinese students wishing to study in the U.S. However, this decision has upset his supporters, and now the National Intelligence Department has expressed concern. Trump's decision starkly contrasts his previous stance.
Threat of Hacking from Chinese Students
Trump intends to bring 600,000 Chinese students to America, but the National Intelligence Department warns that Chinese secret services are recruiting these students for stealing American research. Agencies fear that these students might raise their voices in universities, stirring unrest among other scholars. Security experts suggest that visa issuance should be halted to prevent technology theft and espionage.
A new report from the National Counterintelligence and Security Center, focused on research, intellectual property, technology, and the U.S. research ecosystem, identifies that other foreign spies target universities similarly, but the Chinese threat is most severe. The report states that 'No country has targeted research, science, and technology as aggressively as China. The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) and Chinese secret services pose a continuous espionage threat to America.'
Salt Typhoon Mentioned in the Report
This warning came from National Security Center, backed by cybersecurity, FBI, and National Security Agency, emphasizing that state-sponsored hackers like Salt Typhoon are infiltrating global networks. The warning isn't just about data theft but also about seizing control over whole ecosystems.
Despite recent criticism, President Trump defended his decision to allow 600,000 Chinese students to enter the U.S., stating that China is providing substantial financial benefits to the U.S., and allowing their students is a right step. He referred to his good relations with Chinese President Xi Jinping, asserting that 'My relationship with President Xi is very good.'
Trump Defends Student Entry
He mentioned that China currently gives billions to America. During a meeting with South Korean President Lee Jae-myung, Trump emphasized the importance of U.S.-China relations. In a conversation with reporters in the Oval Office, Trump declared that we are going to permit their students' entry. He noted that the 600,000 figure is over more than two years, and expects nothing in return from Beijing.
This stance regarding Chinese students contradicts Trump's early-year orders to Secretary of State Marco Rubio to swiftly cancel visas for Chinese students, especially those associated with the Chinese Communist Party or studying in critical sectors.
