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yesterday

Departing U.S. Consul General Criticizes Hong Kong’s Transnational Use of National Security Law

His farewell speech at an Independence Day reception spotlighted U.S. alarm over the jailing of pro-democracy figures under the law, prompting a rare public rebuke from Hong Kong authorities.

U.S. Consul General in Hong Kong Gregory May speaks to reporters at the Independence Day Reception on Thursday, June 26, 2025. (AP Photo/Kanis Leung)
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Hong Kong education officials reportedly told teachers and students to avoid US Independence Day events due to national security risks
US Consul General Gregory May (R) speaks at a reception held by the US Consulate in Hong Kong to celebrate Independence Day

Overview

  • Consul General Gregory May said the law has jailed media tycoon Jimmy Lai and dozens of others for peaceful political expression.
  • May accused Hong Kong authorities of enforcing the law beyond the city’s borders by issuing arrest warrants and bounties against overseas activists.
  • He highlighted President Trump’s repeated calls for Lai’s release and cautioned that the 2020 law carries potential life sentences.
  • The U.S. Consulate branded education bureau warnings against Independence Day events as repression of free speech.
  • Hong Kong officials condemned May’s remarks as hypocritical and insisted that the city’s security measures reflect constitutional duties.