China orders closure of US consulate in Chengdu, retaliating for Houston

China ordered the US to close its consulate in the southwestern city of Chengdu, following through on retaliation threats after the Trump administration’s unprecedented decision to shut down the Chinese mission in Houston.

The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs said on Friday that the consulate’s closure was a “legitimate and necessary response to the unjustified act by the US”. The widely anticipated retaliation came hours ahead of the US’ deadline for Chinese diplomats to vacate the Houston facility, which the state department said had served as a hub for spying and influence operations.

Beijing’s decision will not only oust American