It is estimated the the COVID-19 pandemic cost the US over $14 trillion. US currently owes China ~$750 billion.
President Trump should assert that the US will generously offer closure to China for the catastrophe it unleashed by simply canceling our existing debt in leu of seeking payment for the full $14 trillion from China.
This approach would be a huge win on many fronts:
- Reduces debt load (still a drop in the bucket, but valuable nonetheless)
- Sends strong message about our resolve to hold others accountable for reckless medical research practices that cost us lives and livelihoods
- Provides symbolic closure on the COVID-19 saga and allow for China to make restitution to some degree for the event, allowing us to move forward.