US President Donald Trump has strongly defended Jensen Huang, the founder and chief executive officer of global chipmaking giant Nvidia, amidst a massive controversy involving alleged ties with a woman suspected of being a Chinese intelligence agent, while although Huang has been engulfed in a major dispute over these alleged connections, President Trump publicly backed him, describing him as a highly respected individual. Trump stated that Huang should firmly remain at the helm of the semiconductor corporation. Meanwhile, Jensen Huang has acknowledged in an email sent to his employees and family that he had a romantic relationship with the suspected Chinese spy.
The Shocking Revelation of Ties with a Chinese Spy
This entire controversy came to light after Nvidia initiated an investigation into reports that Huang was the target of foreign intelligence agencies. On October 29, The New York Times reported that Huang was targeted by a Chinese espionage conspiracy orchestrated by a Chinese businesswoman named Alice Huang, who had established close relationships with Jensen Huang. She was allegedly channeling Nvidia's advanced AI chips and classified intelligence straight to Beijing. Identified as a top executive at the Singapore-based data center company Megaspeed, Alice Huang was flagged by US intelligence agencies as an intelligence asset working for China.
What Huang Stated in His Email to Axios
In an email obtained by Axios, Jensen Huang openly admitted that he owes an unconditional apology to his family and all company employees. He also reiterated his full cooperation with the ongoing investigation. In his message to the staff, Huang wrote that he must apologize to his family and everyone at the company, admitting that he betrayed his wife and that his actions caused deep pain to her and their children. He stated there is no excuse for what he did and expressed deep regret.
Huang further accepted his fault in the email, noting that throughout his life, his family has given him love and support, and they deserve his honesty and loyalty. Instead, he let them down and damaged the life they built together. He took full responsibility for his actions and the pain caused, acknowledging the resulting fallout.
Apology to Wife and Family
Addressing his wife and family, Huang wrote that he loves them and understands that merely apologizing can't undo what he has done. However, he expressed hope that their family will heal and that over time, he will be able to regain their trust.
Addressing his colleagues at Nvidia, including those he has worked with for decades, alongside global board members, partners, and shareholders, he stated that they deserve better. Leading Nvidia has been the privilege of a lifetime, and his responsibility is to serve them and be worthy of their trust, a duty he failed to fulfill. He remains fully committed to Nvidia and pledged to work hard to regain their trust.
Support for National Security and Independent Investigation
Addressing national security concerns raised in recent news reports, Huang noted that Nvidia's Board of Directors has launched an independent investigation. He fully supports the probe and promised full cooperation. He expressed deep love for his country and company, committing to protecting Nvidia and supporting US national security. He stated he's proud and grateful to be an American, emphasizing that his family isn't responsible for his decisions and requesting privacy for them.
Official Announcement of Independent Probe by Nvidia Board
Nvidia's board officially announced on Sunday that it has launched an investigation against its chief executive and co-founder Jensen Huang after he admitted to an affair with a woman whom US officials identified as working for Chinese intelligence. Meanwhile, when asked about the report on Sunday, Secretary of State Marco Rubio declined to comment, stating it's an internal corporate matter.
President Donald Trump's Defense of Jensen Huang
While political circles buzz with the news, US President Donald Trump strongly defended Jensen Huang, calling him a very respected individual. Speaking to reporters, Trump stated that while he has not directly spoken to Huang regarding this new controversy, he believes the executive has made massive contributions to the country. Trump remarked that he has not spoken to Huang about it, but knows he's a good person, though it's hard to tell what is actually going on. He expressed hope that everything will work out, praising Huang's wonderful work for the country.
When asked by reporters whether he regrets not taking action earlier when intelligence agencies flagged a suspected foreign espionage network, the US President defended the situation by stating that people deserve the benefit of the doubt.
A Respected Individual
Trump elaborated that he doesn't feel any regret, viewing Huang as a respected person who likely has an explanation that people should listen to. He noted that people shouldn't be treated poorly without facts, highlighting Huang's exceptional work for the nation. When directly asked if he expects Huang to remain the CEO of the semiconductor and artificial intelligence giant, Trump answered affirmatively.
This strong defense comes as Nvidia's Board of Directors has initiated an independent inquiry into allegations that Huang was targeted through a foreign intelligence operation. Earlier media reports indicated Huang admitted to an extramarital affair with a tech executive identified by US intelligence as a Chinese agent.
Nvidia's Official Statement
In an official statement released by the company, Nvidia stated that its board is launching an independent investigation following recent reports claiming founder and CEO Jensen Huang was targeted by a foreign intelligence operation. A special committee of independent directors, supported by outside independent legal counsel, will oversee the probe. The board prioritizes US national and economic security, which is paramount for Nvidia and its shareholders.
The company's statement added that while the board has no reason to believe national security or Nvidia's proprietary secrets have been compromised, it will review all available information through the investigation. Nvidia confirmed that Jensen Huang welcomes the internal review and has pledged full cooperation with investigators. The board expressed full and unwavering confidence in Jensen and his leadership team, promising further updates as appropriate.