Beijing reacts strongly to US tariffs, implements "martial law" for diplomats

China has placed civilian officials in Beijing under "martial law" and ordered the initiation of diplomatic measures aimed at encouraging other countries to abandon the tariffs imposed by US President Donald Trump.

According to Reuters, one of the agency's sources stated that propaganda officials from the Communist Party played a leading role in shaping China's response, Caliber.Az reports.

Government spokespersons shared videos on social media featuring the former leader Mao Zedong, who famously declared, "We will never yield."

Sources from Reuters also mentioned that, as part of the "martial law," employees in the foreign affairs and trade ministries were instructed to cancel any vacation plans and keep their mobile phones on at all times. Agencies dealing with US-related issues were also reinforced.

For several months, Chinese diplomats have sought to establish a high-level communication channel with the Trump administration to protect what the Chinese cabinet described in state media as mutually beneficial trade relations.

Optimistic Chinese commentators even hoped for a larger deal with Trump on trade, TikTok, and possibly Taiwan.

Beijing's diplomats have been engaging with governments of other countries that are subject to Trump's tariffs, including sending letters requesting cooperation. Two sources also reported that they reached out to longstanding US allies in Europe, Japan, and South Korea.

"China is a responsible major country. We oppose hegemony not only to protect our legitimate interests but also to uphold the common interests of the international community," stated the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The statement also emphasized that the trade war was instigated by the US and imposed on China. It further stressed that if the US genuinely seeks a resolution through dialogue and negotiations, it must cease exerting excessive pressure.

By Tamilla Hasanova