China has lashed out at the US for showing support for pro-democracy supporters in Hong Kong.
The Chinese government warned that it would take action if the US continues with its support.
President Trump appended his signature to tough legislation that will see Chinese and Hong Kong officials slapped with sanctions over human right violations.
In a strongly-worded statement, the Chinese Foreign Ministry accused the US of backing criminals and distorting the truth.
"The US has been disregarding facts and distorting the truth," a Chinese foreign ministry statement said according to the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC).
"It openly backed violent criminals who rampantly smashed facilities, set fire, assaulted innocent civilians, trampled on the rule of law, and jeopardised social order, " the statement continued.
Trump said he signed the bill in the hope that the Hong Kong issue would be resolved amicably.
“I signed these bills out of respect for President Xi, China and the people of Hong Kong,” the US president said in a statement.
“They are being enacted in the hope that leaders and representatives of China and Hong Kong will be able to amicably settle their differences leading to long-term peace and prosperity for all, " he added.
Hong Kong is in the throes of a months-long political crisis that triggered economic turmoil.