US President Donald Trump's administration officials are said to have considered buying the Royal Mint Court complex in London, where China's new embassy is planned, if legal proceedings ultimately prevent the project from going ahead.
According to British media, this is an informal and exploratory idea, whose supporters believe that such an action would constitute a geopolitical victory, as China would be denied the opportunity to open a diplomatic representation in one of the most important locations in the British capital.
The Chinese embassy construction project recently survived a legal challenge in the Supreme Court, but local residents have warned they will file an appeal, meaning the legal process is not yet over, Reuters writes.
US officials have previously expressed concerns about the property's proximity to sensitive communications infrastructure, warning of potential security risks.
On the other hand, the British government has stated that these risks have been adequately addressed and mitigated.
So far, no official negotiations have taken place for a possible purchase of the complex, while any change of ownership would require the approval of several governments. /Telegraph/
