China’s defense ministry announced plans to enhance military training and implement “forceful measures” in response to an $11.1 billion U.S. arms sales package to Taiwan, the largest ever to the island viewed by Beijing as its territory. China has intensified military and political pressure on Taiwan, lodging “stern representations” with the U.S. and demanding an end to its arms sales and commitments against supporting “Taiwan independence forces.” The ministry criticized the Taiwanese government for allegedly betraying its people by enriching U.S. arms dealers while claiming military reliance for independence. It warned that the U.S.’s ongoing support for Taiwan independence would lead to negative consequences for itself.
The Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) asserted it would bolster combat readiness and take strong actions to maintain national sovereignty, thwarting any attempts at Taiwanese independence or external interference. Specific actions were not detailed. The U.S. maintains unofficial ties with Taiwan while being its primary arms supplier, bound by law to ensure Taiwan’s self-defense capabilities, creating friction with China.
The recent weapons package includes HIMARS rocket systems, utilized extensively in Ukraine, as part of a defense policy supporting Taiwan Security Cooperation. Taiwan’s defense ministry expressed gratitude, stating this would enhance its military capabilities and maintain peace in the Taiwan Strait. Meanwhile, Taiwan’s government rejects Beijing’s sovereignty claims, emphasizing that only its people can determine their future. China has dismissed dialogue offers from Taiwan’s President, labeling him a “separatist” and hasn’t ruled out military action.
With information from Reuters
