Former President Donald Trump said this week he will do everything in his power to help imprisoned Hong Kong pro-democracy figure Jimmy Lai, renewing attention on a high-profile case approaching its verdict amid global concern.

According to CNA, Lai, a Catholic human rights advocate detained since 2020 under China’s national security law, is nearing the end of a lengthy trial clouded by allegations of political interference and deteriorating health.

During a Fox News radio interview, Trump stated that he has “already brought it up” in discussions with U.S. officials and pledged to do “everything” he can to “save” Lai. However, he clarified that he wasn’t guaranteeing a release, saying, “I didn’t say 100% I’d save him. I said 100% I’m going to be bringing it up.”

Lai, 77, was arrested in August 2020 in Hong Kong under Beijing’s sweeping national security law. The law, imposed by China in the aftermath of widespread protests, gives authorities broad powers to criminalize dissent and has drawn concern from human rights organizations worldwide.

Known for his strong support of democracy and freedom of expression, Lai founded the now-defunct pro-democracy newspaper Apple Daily. He has become a symbol of resistance to Beijing’s tightening grip over the semi-autonomous region.

Years of Detention and Global Activism

Lai’s national security trial, which finally began in December 2023 after prolonged delays, is the culmination of years of legal challenges. Before this major trial, he had already been sentenced for offenses related to unauthorized protests and business-related fraud charges, which his supporters view as politically motivated.

In recent days, his case faced further delays. Closing arguments were postponed multiple times due to severe weather in Hong Kong and Lai’s declining health, including reported cardiac issues. Observers worry that these episodes reflect both the strain of his detainment and limited medical access in prison.

Lai’s faith has played a prominent role in his activism. A convert to Catholicism in 1997, he has spoken publicly about drawing strength from his religion as he endures imprisonment. Religious leaders have pointed to his example as one of moral conviction and courage.

Concerns Over Legal Fairness and Political Pressure

Critics of the ongoing legal proceedings have raised alarms over the lack of judicial independence. Father Robert Sirico, a Catholic priest and supporter of Lai, has called attention to the structure of the trial itself, noting that the defendant faces judgment from three judges handpicked by Hong Kong’s chief executive, who answers to Beijing authorities.

Sirico expressed doubt that a fair outcome is possible under such conditions. “When was the last time you saw a totalitarian government put someone through their court system and have them come out innocent?” he asked. He emphasized that there is no jury present in Lai’s trial—a feature that legal analysts say undermines impartiality.

“He reminds us what it looks like to live without fear. To speak without permission. To suffer for the truth,” Sirico said of Lai’s example. He added, “He reminds us, in other words, of what it means to be free.”

U.S. Advocacy and Emerging Legislation

Calls for the U.S. government to take stronger action have grown over the past two years. In 2023, a congressional commission recommended sanctioning Hong Kong’s prosecutors and judges in Lai’s case if he remained detained.

During that same year, Lai’s imprisonment was condemned by multiple international organizations and religious leaders. The incident has become a rallying point for freedom of speech advocates as well as the global Catholic community.

Lai’s artistic work received attention when the Catholic University of America displayed his pieces on campus in 2024, an initiative meant to raise awareness of his struggle and pay tribute to his dedication to democratic ideals.

Recognition and Renewed Political Interest

Earlier this year, Lai was awarded the prestigious Bradley Prize in recognition of his principled stance in defense of liberty. The honor highlighted his efforts as both a publisher and a public figure who refused to be silenced under authoritarian pressure.

In a symbolic gesture, a bill was recently introduced in the U.S. Congress to rename a street in Washington, D.C., as “Jimmy Lai Way,” adding to the growing list of actions meant to honor his legacy and bring attention to his situation.

Trump praised Lai’s son, Sebastien, for his commitment to advocacy. “His name has already entered the circle of things that we’re talking about,” Trump said, affirming ongoing attention to the case at high levels of government.

Awaiting Verdict and International Response

As Lai’s trial nears a verdict, observers say global attention could play a pivotal role in determining the outcome—or at least influencing how it is received by the international community. Many believe the ruling is a foregone conclusion, shaped not by justice but by China’s political will.

Lai has now spent over four years in prison. His health and age have added urgency to diplomatic and human rights advocacy efforts calling for his release.

The final decision from the Hong Kong court is expected within weeks. Unless there is an unexpected reversal, analysts caution that the case may set a powerful precedent for how the Chinese government uses legal tools to silence dissent.