US expert on underground nuclear tests detained in China for 18 months

American Seismologist Held in China Faces Espionage Allegations Amid Nuclear Tensions

US expert on underground nuclear tests – Youlin Chen, a distinguished American researcher specializing in subterranean atomic explosions, remains confined within Chinese borders for over a year and a half regarding espionage allegations. According to his advocates and a prominent United States senator, the seismologist has been unjustly held since November 2024. Senator Edward Markey issued a formal statement on Tuesday confirming that Chen is being “wrongfully detained” despite his extensive contributions to the field.

Global Reach, a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting Chen’s family, highlighted that he is the sole American citizen currently imprisoned in China who carries the official designation of being wrongfully detained. The scientist, who resides in Boston and has a son of college age, represents a significant point of diplomatic friction between Washington and Beijing. This situation arises as both nations attempt to stabilize their bilateral relationship, particularly ahead of an anticipated visit by Chinese leader Xi Jinping to the United States later this autumn.

Diplomatic Interventions and Nuclear Context

President Donald Trump personally intervened in the matter during a high-level summit held in Beijing this past May. During this meeting, the US president advocated for the scientist’s release while speaking directly with Xi Jinping. Global Reach confirmed that the president raised the specific case of Chen during these discussions. The timing of the public revelation comes shortly after Chinese authorities confirmed the arrest of another American academic, Min Zin, accusing him of endangering national security through suspected spying activities.

There are growing suspicions among observers that Chen’s confinement may be connected to Beijing’s