Hong Kong Publisher Jimmy Lai Faces Life Sentence in Landmark National Security Trial

Lai denies collusion with foreign powers as Beijing's national security law reshapes Hong Kong's freedoms.

• Jimmy Lai, founder of the pro-democracy Apple Daily newspaper, is accused of colluding with foreign forces and faces life imprisonment under Hong Kong's national security law.
• Lai testified that his meetings with U.S. officials in 2019 sought only verbal support for Hong Kong's democracy movement, not actions against China or the city.
• The trial is widely seen as a litmus test for press freedom and judicial independence in Hong Kong, where Beijing's influence has grown since the 2019 protests.
• This week, 45 pro-democracy activists were sentenced to up to 10 years in prison for their roles in an unofficial primary election, highlighting broader crackdowns under the security law.
• International criticism has mounted, with the U.S. and U.K. condemning the erosion of freedoms in Hong Kong and calling for Lai's release.

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