U.S. Scholar Designated as Wrongfully Detained in China
The Trump administration has officially labeled Min Zin, an American scholar, as wrongfully held in China. Zin was detained after traveling to China at Beijing’s invitation. This action takes place shortly before Chinese President Xi Jinping’s planned visit to the United States.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced that the State Department had reviewed Zin’s June 3 detention in Yunnan and determined his status. Zin had attended an academic conference in China, invited by the Chinese government.
Pastor Freed From Chinese Prison After Trump Raised His Case With Xi Jinping
Marco Rubio spoke at Camp David on July 31, 2026, highlighting U.S. concerns as conflicts with Iran continue. The State Department now considers Zin and Dr. Youlin Chen, a Chinese-born U.S. seismologist, wrongfully detained in China.
Assistant Secretary Dylan Johnson emphasized that the safety of U.S. citizens is a priority. The department continues its advocacy for Zin and others detained or exit-banned in China.
Zin faced detention at the airport upon his arrival and has undergone repeated interrogations while in isolation for nearly 11 weeks, according to a senior State Department official.
The official also noted the abrupt loss of communication between Zin’s colleagues and family after his arrival. For two days, his whereabouts and well-being were unknown until Yunnan authorities informed the U.S. Embassy that Zin was under investigation for criminal activities threatening China’s national security.
China’s Foreign Ministry confirmed Zin’s arrest, accusing him of spying and jeopardizing national security. Beijing denies wrongful detentions exist, asserting adherence to Chinese law in such matters.
The U.S. designation aims to draw more attention to Zin’s case ahead of Xi Jinping’s anticipated visit to the White House on Sept. 24, increasing efforts for his release.
Min Zin, a scholar on Burma and Chinese foreign policy, leads the Institute for Strategy and Policy. His background includes involvement in Burma’s 1988 pro-democracy movement before seeking asylum in the U.S.
The State Department promises continued pressure for Zin’s release, as well as for other Americans it describes as unfairly held or restricted in China.