China sanctions Sens. Cruz, Rubio, others for criticizing alleged human rights abuses

China said Monday it will impose sanctions on three members of Congress and one ambassador, following similar actions taken last week by the Trump administration against Chinese officials over alleged human rights abuses against Muslims.

The members of Congress are Sens. Marco Rubio and Ted Cruz and Rep. Chris Smith, all Republicans, and Ambassador for Religious Freedom Sam Brownback.

The Congressional-Executive Commission on China also was targeted, according to the Associated Press. 

They have been critical of the ruling Chinese Communist Party’s policies toward minority groups and people of faith.

Foreign ministry spokesperson Hua Chunying said the U.S. move had “seriously damaged China-U.S. relations” and that China was determined to uphold its national sovereignty against what it sees as interference in its internal affairs.

“China will respond further according to the development of the situation,” said Hua said, the wire service also reported.