On Tuesday, June 3, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio honored the courage of Chinese citizens who lost their lives during the violent suppression of pro-democracy protests in Beijing’s Tiananmen Square, which occurred 36 years ago. “We honor the bravery of those who died while trying to exercise their basic rights, and we stand with those still facing persecution as they seek justice for what happened on June 4, 1989,” Rubio said in an official statement. He emphasized that the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) works to suppress the truth, but “the world will never forget.”

The Chinese embassy in Washington did not immediately respond to a request for comment. In the early hours of June 4, 1989, Chinese military tanks entered Tiananmen Square, and soldiers opened fire to put an end to the weeks-long protests led by students and workers demanding democratic reforms. The CCP has never disclosed an official death toll, but human rights groups and eyewitnesses estimate the number of deaths could reach into the thousands.

In China, discussion of the crackdown remains taboo and the anniversary is not acknowledged publicly. However, memorial events continue to be held in cities abroad. Rubio stated, “The bravery shown in the face of extreme danger is a reminder that freedom, democracy, and self-governance are universal values—not just American ones. The CCP cannot erase them.”

His remarks come amid strained U.S.-China relations. Since starting his second term on January 20, President Donald Trump has imposed 145% tariffs on most Chinese imports, citing long-standing trade grievances. China retaliated with 125% tariffs on American goods. Recent talks in Geneva led to a temporary 90-day pause on the tariffs, but major issues behind the trade conflict—particularly the U.S.’s concern with China’s state-led, export-heavy economy—remain unresolved.

Top U.S. officials mentioned that Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping are expected to speak soon to address trade tensions, including disputes over critical minerals and China’s restrictions on certain exports. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said during a Tuesday briefing that the administration is closely monitoring China’s adherence to the Geneva agreement and confirmed a high-level conversation is expected soon.