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Travelers on Air Force One ordered to throw away gifts, phones after China trip

3 hours ago
  • #US-China Relations
  • #Diplomatic Security
  • #Espionage Concerns
  • U.S. delegation, led by President Trump, concluded high-level talks with China in Beijing and departed on Air Force One.
  • Before departure, White House staff and reporters were required to surrender Chinese-issued items, including burner phones, badges, and lapel pins, for security reasons, likely over espionage concerns.
  • The disposal of items reflects U.S. vigilance against Chinese intelligence capabilities, amid longstanding accusations of cyberattacks and espionage by China against the U.S. and allies.