On May 5th, Chinese Communist Party leader Xi Jinping embarked on a visit to France, where he held talks with French President Macron at the Elysee Palace. During the meeting, Xi attracted attention by using a black straw cup, which led to speculation by some American bloggers that he might be afraid of being poisoned.
According to CCTV news, on the morning of May 6th, Macron, along with European Commission President von der Leyen, held talks with Xi Jinping at the Elysee Palace in Paris. In the afternoon, Macron held a separate meeting with Xi at the Elysee Palace in Paris.
From the video footage from CCTV and official photos released, Xi was seen using a black straw cup to drink water, unlike other attendees, including Macron, who used glass cups.
During the trilateral meeting between Xi, Macron, and von der Leyen, the situation remained the same. Observers noted the unusual choice of cup by Xi.
American Substack blogger Jinpeili questioned whether Xi’s use of the straw cup was due to a fear of poisoning or being drugged, even within the secure confines of the Elysee Palace.
Since coming to power, Xi Jinping has made significant changes in his security protocol, such as employing male attendants at important Communist Party meetings, leading to speculation that they could serve as bodyguards in case of emergencies. During public appearances, Xi is often seen with two teacups placed in front of him, with someone specifically assigned to pour tea, fueling rumors of his fear of potential poisoning attempts.
When Xi Jinping’s plane arrived in Paris on May 5th, Central Office head Cai Qi was the first to descend the stairs followed by Foreign Minister Wang Yi, Ambassador Lu Shaye, and others responsible for Xi’s security. Despite the welcome arranged by the Chinese Embassy, there were also significant protests surrounding Xi’s movements in the city.
These observations have raised further questions and discussions surrounding Xi Jinping’s security concerns and the unusual precautions taken during his diplomatic visits.