A White House staffer was knocked down and trampled by Chinese reporters during President Donald Trump's bilateral meeting with Chinese leader Xi Jinping, sustaining minor injuries, according to the New York Post.
Details of the Incident
The incident occurred as Chinese journalists surged forward during the meeting at the Great Hall of the People. The staffer was described as 'bruised and shaken' but did not require hospitalization.
Restrictions and Confrontations
U.S. journalists covering the state visit faced strict limitations, including restricted access to facilities and confiscation of water bottles despite high temperatures. A 30-minute confrontation ensued when Chinese officials refused entry to a Secret Service agent carrying a firearm, who was accompanying the presidential press pool at the Temple of Heaven.
Chinese authorities also attempted to block the press pool from joining President Trump's motorcade, leading to further disputes with the U.S. delegation. The U.S. delegation encountered numerous challenges and confrontations with Chinese officials throughout the state visit, with one American official reportedly calling the situation a 's***show.'
Context of the Visit
The incident occurred against the backdrop of heightened tensions between the U.S. and China over Taiwan. Trump addressed Xi as 'my friend' at a lavish state banquet, even as Beijing threatened conflict with the U.S. over the island.
