An American seismologist specializing in nuclear test detection has been detained in China on espionage charges since November 2024, his family revealed. Youlin Chen, who researched how to detect underground nuclear tests using seismological data, was arrested on November 5, 2024, according to a statement from the NGO Global Reach, which is working with his family to secure his freedom.
Trump's Appeal to Xi Unanswered
Global Reach said that during US President Donald Trump's state visit to China in May, Trump urged Chinese President Xi Jinping to free Chen, and Xi reportedly agreed to work on the issue. However, no progress has been made. Eric Lebson, Global Reach chief strategy officer, stated: "We are now at the midpoint between the May commitment made by President Xi and his upcoming September visit to Washington DC, and the Chinese have made no apparent movement on releasing Dr Chen."
Possible Motive for Detention
Global Reach suggested Chen's arrest may be linked to US accusations that China conducted underground nuclear tests in violation of nuclear test bans. "Chen's area of expertise – seismic monitoring and detection of underground nuclear tests – would give the Chinese government an opportunity to learn as much as possible about US seismic detection methodologies so they can establish countermeasures that allow them to circumvent [the treaty]," Global Reach said.
Family's Concerns and Health Issues
Chen's wife, Yufang Rong, said she has not been able to speak to her husband for more than 600 days and is "concerned for his health and wellbeing." She added: "Youlin has never held a US government security clearance and to suggest he was involved in espionage is both wrong and inconsistent with the public and collaborative nature of the work that he has done." According to a profile by the James Foley Foundation, Chen has diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol.
US Government Designation and Response
Chen was formally declared "wrongfully detained" by the US government in March, but his family initially chose not to announce the designation in hopes it would aid State Department efforts for his release. The US State Department on Tuesday urged Beijing to release Chen. "The United States has raised Mr Chen's case directly with Chinese officials, calling for his immediate release," a department spokesperson told AFP by email.
Chen's Research and Funding
Global Reach said the US military and State Department have funded some of Chen's research, and he has authored studies on using data from across Asia, including in China, "to improve methods for nuclear test monitoring and yield estimation." China denies it has conducted explosive nuclear tests, saying the US is seeking a pretext to resume its own testing. The Chinese embassy in Washington did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
