China Rebukes US Criticism of Tiananmen Crackdown
China’s foreign ministry issued a formal protest after US Senator Marco Rubio declared that “the world will never forget” the deadly Tiananmen Square crackdown of June 4, 1989. In a statement, Rubio accused Chinese authorities of erasing historical facts and honoring victims’ bravery as they demanded greater political freedoms.
On that date, Chinese troops and tanks dispersed peaceful protesters in Beijing’s Tiananmen Square after weeks of demonstrations. Although exact figures remain disputed, analysts estimate that hundreds—possibly more than a thousand—were killed when security forces opened fire.
China’s government has since censored any public discussion of the event. On June 4, authorities deployed police to Wan’an Cemetery, where many victims are buried, and stationed officers around entrances to Tiananmen Square. In the evening, security vehicles blocked viewing screens at the German and Canadian embassies that were displaying candlelight tributes for victims.
Rubio’s statement criticized China’s media controls and praised those who continue to seek justice. “Today we honor the courage of those who lost their lives standing up for fundamental freedoms,” he said. China’s spokesperson Lin Jian responded at a press briefing, accusing Rubio of distorting history and meddling in China’s internal affairs.
In Taipei, Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te echoed Rubio’s remarks, emphasizing that democratic societies preserve historical truth and honor human rights. China considers Taiwan part of its territory and has threatened military action to enforce reunification.
Meanwhile, in Hong Kong—formerly the only Chinese territory where public commemorations were allowed—activist Chow Hang-tung began a 36-hour hunger strike to mark the anniversary. Under the city’s national security law, Hong Kong authorities have banned large vigils and arrested participants. On June 4, police detained at least seven individuals near Victoria Park, including two schoolgirls carrying white flowers, a traditional symbol of mourning.
Chow urged authorities to apologize for her imprisonment and highlighted ongoing efforts by families of victims, known as the Tiananmen Mothers, to obtain official accountability. In Taipei’s Liberty Square, students and activists lit candles to honor the 1989 protesters. Twenty-year-old American student Lara Waldron said she felt a close connection to those who lost their lives, noting that her age mirrored that of many activists in 1989.
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