US government criticizes Chinese institutes at universities

U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth labeled Chinese Confucius Institutes as "national security threats," claiming they operate as "sleeper organizations" in universities. He noted that 80 new propaganda cells have emerged under different names, aiming to steal intellectual property and influence American students. Hegseth stated that the Defense Department has systematically dismantled these organizations in recent months. Confucius Institutes, funded by the Chinese government, promote Chinese culture and language abroad, but have faced accusations of propaganda, which China denies. Hegseth's comments come amid ongoing U.S.-China relations discussions, including a recent summit between President Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping.