Diplomatic Dismissal: US Fires Envoy Over China Romance

The US State Department has dismissed a diplomat due to a romantic relationship with a Chinese woman linked to the Chinese Communist Party. This marks the first enforcement of a rule banning such relations, initially instituted at the end of Joe Biden's presidency. The diplomat's identity remains undisclosed.

The U.S. State Department has terminated a diplomat for a romantic relationship with a Chinese woman reported to have connections to the Chinese Communist Party, signaling a strict enforcement of new policies.

Officials say this is the first instance of such an enforcement since the Biden administration imposed a ban late last year. The restrictions apply to all American personnel in China, including family members and contractors with security clearances.

A related statement by State Department spokesman Tommy Pigott emphasized zero tolerance for actions undermining national security. The Chinese government, meanwhile, has opted not to comment directly on the dismissal.

(With inputs from agencies.)