Chinese Media Criticizes U.S. Amid Independence Celebrations

As Americans marked the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, a wave of Chinese state media criticized the United States, depicting it as a declining power. A video from the state news agency Xinhua showed an Uncle Sam figure blowing out birthday candles shaped like ballistic missiles, which then targeted Iran on a world map. The backdrop highlighted countries involved in U.S. military actions, such as Vietnam, Afghanistan, Iraq, and Libya.

Newsweek sought comments from the U.S. Embassy in Beijing via email following this portrayal. Traditionally, Beijing has used state-run media to advance narratives more aggressively than official diplomatic channels. These narratives often cast the U.S., China’s geopolitical competitor, as a dysfunctional power, contrasted with the governance model of the Chinese Communist Party.

American Decline Portrayed

During a speech at Mount Rushmore, U.S. President Donald Trump emphasized American exceptionalism, claiming unparalleled status while warning against communism. However, Xinhua and other outlets described political stalemates, ongoing social issues, and divisive foreign policies as indicators of American decline. In a July 4 editorial, Xinhua described the American system, dating back to George Washington, as facing a significant test, questioning its ability to resolve internal issues and adapt to global changes.

The real question is no longer about past achievements but whether American institutions can address their own problems and if its leadership can adjust to a multipolar world.

Wu Xinbo, a professor and dean at Beijing’s Fudan University, noted at a seminar that Washington’s global leadership role has weakened. Hu Xijin, former editor of the Global Times, commented on Weibo about China’s growth in areas like merchandise exports, high-speed rail, and electric vehicles, despite competition in advanced technologies. Hu expressed confidence that by America’s 300th anniversary, China’s national strength and technological progress would surpass that of the U.S.

Despite the commentary from state media, official Chinese tones were more restrained. President Xi Jinping extended congratulations to Trump, and China’s ambassador to the U.S., Xie Feng, wished Americans a joyous celebration. Xie suggested that Trump’s slogan “Make America Great Again” and Xi’s “great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation” could jointly promote global well-being.