China Opposes U.S. Arms Sale to Taiwan

BEIJING (Reuters) – China will take "countermeasures" to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity, the government announced, criticizing a $2 billion arms sale package by the United States to Taiwan.

The United States is mandated by law to equip Chinese-claimed Taiwan with the ability to defend itself, which continues to anger Beijing despite the absence of formal diplomatic ties.

On Friday, the Pentagon announced the approval of a potential $2 billion arms sale to Taiwan, including the first-time delivery of an advanced air defense missile system, which has been battle-tested in Ukraine.

In a statement released late Saturday, China’s foreign ministry condemned and opposed the arms sales, stating that they have lodged "solemn representations" with the United States.

China demands that the United States ceases arming Taiwan and halts its dangerous actions that disrupt peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. The ministry declared, "China will take resolute countermeasures and take all measures necessary to firmly defend national sovereignty, security and territorial integrity," but did not provide further details.

In the recent five years, China has intensified its military presence around Taiwan, a democratically governed island whose administration rejects Beijing's claims of sovereignty. This includes recent military exercises earlier this month.

Taiwan's government supports the new arms sale, marking the 17th such deal under the Biden administration. "In the face of China’s threats, Taiwan is duty-bound to protect its homeland, and will continue to demonstrate its determination to defend itself," stated Taiwan’s foreign ministry in response to the arms sale.