China opposes US DeepSeek ban targeting Chinese AI in federal agencies

The US Department of Homeland Security has banned DeepSeek, the Chinese AI startup, from federal civilian agencies. Beijing has responded with its standard reply: an objection. The order requires agencies to remove DeepSeek’s products and services, including tools built on its AI models. China’s Foreign Ministry pushed back, saying it will protect the rights of its companies. What the DHS order actually does According to the research findings, the ban first took effect in July 2026. It was announced publicly on October 19, 2026. The order applies to US federal civilian agencies. The Treasury, State, and Justice Departments are named among those covered. The removal requirement is broad. It covers DeepSeek’s direct offerings and any products built on top of its AI models. DHS cited several concerns. They include the risk of sensitive data moving to China, vulnerability to malware, and security problems linked to Chinese national laws that govern technology companies. One major department is not on the list. The research findings indicate the Department of Defense was excluded from the ban. Beijing’s response Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning condemned the decision. She ...