Published: May 09, 2026, 19:30 IST | Updated: May 09, 2026, 19:30 IST
As U.S. Secretary of State (2018–2021), Mike Pompeo took a hardline stance against Chinese espionage, labeling the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) a "predator" engaging in widespread intellectual property theft and illegal influence operations. He authorized major actions, including closing the Chinese consulate in Houston, which he termed a "hub of spying".