China has issued a stern warning to the United States following the recent announcement of over $800 million in military aid and sales to Taiwan, escalating tensions in the already volatile Taiwan Strait. Beijing condemned the move, calling it a “dangerous” act that threatens peace and stability in the region.
On Saturday, U.S. President Joe Biden authorized $571 million in military assistance for Taiwan, covering Defense Department materials, services, and military training. This follows a September authorization of $567 million for similar purposes. In a separate development, the Pentagon on Friday approved an additional $295 million in military sales, which includes $265 million for 300 tactical radio systems and $30 million for 16 gun mounts.
The Chinese Foreign Ministry responded with a strongly worded statement urging the U.S. to cease its support for Taiwan. “We urge the United States to stop arming Taiwan and stop making dangerous moves that undermine peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait,” the ministry said, reiterating its claim over Taiwan as part of its territory.
Taiwan, however, welcomed the U.S.’s continued military backing. The island’s Foreign Ministry, in a post on social media platform X, expressed gratitude, stating the aid reaffirms Washington’s “commitment to our defense.” The U.S. justifies its support as a measure to help Taiwan strengthen its self-defense capabilities and deter potential aggression from China.
China’s dissatisfaction with U.S. actions is not new. In October, Washington approved a $2 billion arms package for Taiwan, which included an advanced surface-to-air missile defense system. Beijing responded with military drills around Taiwan, showcasing its displeasure and military strength.
The situation remains tense as Taiwan earlier this month demanded that China halt its military activities in the surrounding waters, accusing Beijing of undermining peace, disrupting international shipping, and destabilizing the region.
Amid these developments, former U.S. President Donald Trump had previously made controversial remarks about Taiwan. He suggested that the U.S. might not defend Taiwan in the event of an invasion unless the island paid for its defense, comparing the relationship to an insurance policy. Taiwan currently allocates around 2.5% of its GDP to defense spending.
As the U.S. bolsters its military support for Taiwan, China’s warnings underscore the fragile geopolitical balance in the Taiwan Strait. The escalating tensions continue to draw global attention, with the potential for significant implications for regional and international stability.