Family of detained US seismologist urges China to release scientist held on espionage charges

Wednesday 15 July 2026 - 09:30

By: Sahili Aya

Family of detained US seismologist urges China to release scientist held on espionage charges

The family of American seismologist Youlin Chen has publicly appealed for his release after more than 20 months in Chinese detention, intensifying pressure on Beijing as diplomatic efforts between the United States and China have yet to secure his freedom.

Chen, who was arrested in November 2024 on espionage allegations, is officially recognized by the U.S. government as being wrongfully detained in China, according to Global Reach, the organization representing his family.

Family goes public after diplomatic efforts stall

In its first public statement on the case, Chen's family said it decided to speak out after private diplomatic initiatives failed to produce results.

According to Global Reach, the scientist's detention was raised during a meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing in May, when Trump reportedly requested Chen's release.

The family said it chose to publicize the case because Chinese authorities had not acted following that appeal.

Research background at the center of the case

Chen is a seismologist whose research on detecting underground nuclear tests received funding from the U.S. government. His scientific work focused on technologies used to monitor seismic activity and support international nuclear test detection efforts.

Chinese authorities have accused him of espionage, although details surrounding the allegations have not been made public.

The case has drawn attention because Chen is currently the only American citizen officially designated by Washington as wrongfully detained in China.

Diplomatic tensions remain in focus

The detention highlights the broader challenges facing relations between Washington and Beijing, where individual legal cases have increasingly become sensitive diplomatic issues.

The United States has continued to seek Chen's release through diplomatic channels, while his family hopes that greater public attention will encourage renewed efforts to resolve the case.

As discussions between the two governments continue on a range of strategic issues, Chen's detention remains one of the most prominent humanitarian concerns affecting bilateral relations.