OK, what can the USA do at this time?
China declaring the protests an act of terror could lead to military action by Beijing. China already has 6,000 to 10,000 People’s Liberation Army troops stationed next to Hong Kong, according to The Wall Street Journal.
Market participants say that heightened tensions or a bloody clash could roil global markets because Hong Kong is seen as a financial hub and problems in the region could also stall any chance of a near-term Sino-American trade resolution.
Hong Kong is a major financial center and its disruption could have implications for markets in Asia as well as spillover to Europe and the U.S. whether we like it or not. There are over 1,500 U.S. companies with a presence in Hong Kong.
Also, the Chinese media have already accused the U.S. of being behind the protests — or at least encouraging them — tying the unrest in Hong Kong to the greater trade dispute with the U.S.
Ultimately, a harsh response to protesters by China’s PLA, including loss of life, could make it unpalatable for the Trump administration to forge a grand trade deal.
Even if Trump were willing to overlook a violent crackdown, it isn’t clear that Congress would.
The USA could raise tariff to 25% on China if they invade. We could station a CVBG off the coast of HK now. But we can’t. Why? Because Free Traitors™ would have conniption.
Grande? LOL. "No deal" would be the BEST outcome from a terrible situation.
[Ultimately, a harsh response to protesters by China’s PLA, including loss of life, could make it unpalatable for the Trump administration to forge a grand trade deal.
Even if Trump were willing to overlook a violent crackdown, it isn’t clear that Congress would.]