What’s new: The Chinese embassy in Washington Thursday warned Chinese nationals in the United States to pay close attention to the local security situation and carefully consider whether to go out in public after U.S. President Donald Trump’s supporters stormed the Capitol, leading to mayhem that left four dead and dozens arrested.
The embassy said in a consular notice (link in Chinese) that the warning was due to the spread of Covid-19 in the host country and “large demonstrations” in Washington on Wednesday.
“Chinese citizens should pay close attention to the local virus and security situation. They should be vigilant and prepare safety precautions and cautiously consider whether to go out to public places,” the notice said.
The background: Hundreds of Trump supporters stormed the Capitol, where U.S. lawmakers were meeting in a session to certify former U.S. Vice President Joe Biden’s win over Trump to become the next U.S. president.
The demonstration turned violent with protesters clashing with the police. Four members of the public died and at least 52 were arrested before the certification session resumed later in the night.
Contact reporter Lu Zhenhua (zhenhualu@caixin.com) and editor Marcus Ryder (marcusryder@caixin.com)
