[US-China New Cold War] US Highlights China's Responsibility for COVID-19... 'Pressuring Allies to Join'

[Asia Economy Reporter Naju-seok] The US government, which is emphasizing China's responsibility for the outbreak of the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19), is reportedly pressuring its allies to also join in, CNN reported on the 5th (local time).

CNN, citing multiple sources, reported that not only President Donald Trump but also Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Larry Kudlow, Chairman of the White House National Economic Council (NEC), are requesting several allied countries to join in pressuring China. They are highlighting the fact that China tried to conceal the severity of COVID-19.

According to the report, President Trump mentioned the China issue during conversations with foreign leaders. While many allied countries expressed concern about rising tensions with China in this regard, some European leaders reportedly showed interest in how China responded to COVID-19.

Currently, in the US, additional tariffs on China, revocation of immunity for the Chinese government's sovereign acts, and stronger crackdowns on Chinese telecommunications companies are being discussed. However, sources said, "No immediate actions will be taken."

US government officials continue to emphasize the substance of the COVID-19 China responsibility theory. John Ratcliffe, a House Representative nominated as Director of National Intelligence (DNI), said at the Senate confirmation hearing, "China is the greatest threat to the US in many respects." In response to questions about relations with China, he stated, "Not all roads lead to China, but a significant portion does."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.