Judge orders China to pay $24 billion for COVID cover-up

A federal judge in Missouri has ordered China to pay $24 billion for its role in the COVID-19 pandemic, citing a cover-up and hoarding of protective equipment. This ruling allows Missouri to pursue the seizure of Chinese-owned assets, including farmland. The lawsuit, initiated in April 2020, accused the Chinese government of withholding vital information about the virus. China has rejected the ruling, claiming it lacks legal basis. Missouri officials plan to identify and seize Chinese assets to enforce the judgment. This case represents one of the largest legal judgments against a foreign government related to a global crisis. The outcome could significantly impact U.S.-China relations as Missouri seeks to hold China accountable for its actions during the pandemic.