China Warns US Against Arming Taiwan, Calls Moves “Dangerous”
China has strongly condemned the United States for providing Taiwan with additional defense materials, calling the move “dangerous” and a threat to peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait.
The US Department of Defense announced on Friday that it had approved $295 million in military sales to Taiwan, in addition to the $571 million in military aid approved by President Joe Biden on Saturday. The sales include tactical radio systems and gun mounts, and are intended to help Taiwan defend itself and deter China from launching an attack.
The Chinese Foreign Ministry released a statement urging the US to stop arming Taiwan and to cease what it referred to as “dangerous moves that undermine peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait.”
The US has repeatedly signaled its support for Taiwan through military deals, operations, and diplomatic interactions with Taiwanese officials. The sales and assistance are intended to help Taiwan defend itself, and possibly deter China from launching an attack.
The tensions between the US and China over Taiwan have been escalating, with China sending a large number of naval ships and military planes to the region in recent weeks. Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te has also visited the US, where he met with US congressional leaders and expressed his gratitude for US support.
The US has approved a potential $2 billion arms sale package to Taiwan, which includes the delivery of an advanced air defense missile system and radar systems. The package is valued at up to $1.16 billion and is expected to be completed by the end of 2024.