Journalism ResourcesFOREIGN PRESS USAChina, Misinformation, Disinformation, Texas, Greg Abbott, Immigration, Migrants

Fact Check: Misinformation Spreads in China Amid Texas Border Standoff

Journalism ResourcesFOREIGN PRESS USAChina, Misinformation, Disinformation, Texas, Greg Abbott, Immigration, Migrants
Fact Check: Misinformation Spreads in China Amid Texas Border Standoff

As the border dispute between Texas and the White House over illegal immigration intensifies, misinformation has proliferated in China, suggesting that Texas has officially declared war to secede from the United States. Chinese outlets have portrayed the situation in Texas as indicative of deepening divisions in the U.S., sparking unrest.

Texas Governor Greg Abbott's Operation Lone Star, aimed at blocking or deterring illegal entry into the state, has fueled tensions. The installation of razor wire barriers along the city of Eagle Pass and the Supreme Court ruling against Abbott have become focal points. Despite the court's decision, Abbott vows to intensify efforts, characterizing the situation as an "invasion."

On Chinese social media platform Sina Weibo, posts with the hashtag #TexasDeclaresAStateOfWar have gained traction, alleging that Abbott is preparing for war with federal authorities. A Voice of America journalist specializing in Chinese online disinformation highlighted the misinformation, emphasizing that the alleged war declaration did not happen in reality.

While Weibo has taken some action to limit such content, including disclaimers, numerous posts still circulate. Photos of the Texas Military Department flying a flag with the words "Come and Take It" and old videos from Fox News and Chile are contributing to the false narrative. The censorship environment makes it challenging for Chinese users to fact-check, fostering the impression that Texas is at war.

The comparison to Ukraine's situation with Russia is circulating, drawing parallels between the two regions' land masses. Chinese state media, consistently suggesting intense political divisions in the U.S., contributes to the belief that the country is on the brink of internal conflict.

The Chinese government in a recent statement denied interference in the internal affairs of other countries, saying that this “principle in our foreign policy … is recognised by the international community.”