In a heightened geopolitical clash, China announced its intention to take “countermeasures” following a newly approved $2 billion arms sale from the United States to Taiwan. The arms deal has intensified existing concerns over stability in the Taiwan Strait, where tensions have been steadily rising.
Details of the U.S.-Taiwan Arms Package On Friday, the Pentagon revealed approval for a potential arms sale package to Taiwan valued at approximately $2 billion. This includes an advanced air defense missile system, which has previously seen combat use in Ukraine, as well as sophisticated radar and surface-to-air missile systems. Congressional approval remains the next step for the deal, aimed at significantly strengthening Taiwan’s defensive position.
The Pentagon’s Defense Security Cooperation Agency outlined the deal’s components, which include $1.16 billion in missile systems and an estimated $828 million in radar systems. Taiwan will acquire three National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile Systems (NASAMS) as part of the package, equipped with AMRAAM Extended Range surface-to-air missiles.
China's Strong Response In a statement issued on Saturday, China’s foreign ministry voiced strong opposition to the arms sale and said it had made “solemn representations” to the United States. China urged the U.S. to cease its military support for Taiwan, warning that such moves threaten peace in the region.
“China will take resolute countermeasures and necessary actions to firmly defend national sovereignty, security, and territorial integrity,” the ministry said, without detailing specific actions it plans to take.
Taiwan’s Reaction to the Deal Taiwan’s government has welcomed the arms sale, marking it as the 17th such deal with the U.S. under the current administration. Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs emphasized the need for a robust defense amid growing threats from China. It stated that the acquisition is crucial for Taiwan’s ability to protect its sovereignty.
The Ministry of National Defense of Taiwan highlighted the effectiveness of the NASAMS in Ukraine and underscored how the system would improve Taiwan’s air defense as China’s military activities near Taiwan continue to increase.
Broader Implications for U.S.-China Relations This arms deal has strained the already delicate U.S.-China relationship, with China arguing that such actions damage bilateral ties and heighten tensions in the Taiwan Strait. China has recently increased its military maneuvers around Taiwan, carrying out exercises near the island earlier this month as part of its claims of sovereignty over Taiwan.
In recent months, Beijing has sanctioned U.S. defense companies over similar arms sales to Taiwan, signaling an ongoing pattern of reciprocal measures as both countries maintain their stances on Taiwan’s security and sovereignty.
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