Canadians Michael Spavor and Michael Kovrig detained in China 3 yrs on way home
The Chinese government doesn't care about speculation that this was retaliation. They might claim these men were arrested on legitimate grounds, but they want everyone to know why they were arrested, which is what the timing is about. It is a deterrent, "do not extradite our assets upon request."
I see a lot of influencers acting like it's no big deal to travel to China. That it's as safe as any other Asian country. Meanwhile, for three years, China holds Western hostages. Not a place I'd want to visit even with the technological cities like Shenzhen, the historical sites, the beautiful landscape and the ancient culture being so alluring [1]
I prefer to remain free*
* And instead take my chances getting maimed by an American cop at a traffic stop or protest [2] ;-)
Couple of Canadian spies for the Princess of Huawei? Sure thing!
sounds like canada should join the defense pact
> but by putting them on the plane tonight, they've clearly acknowledged
They haven't acknowledged.
They easily could have waited a week or month.
They have rushed to get them on the plane.
It's a clear statement.
Alternate theory is it's possible the USA forced them to do this as part of the swap.