Beijing has strongly condemned the recent announcement of $571 million in military aid from the United States to Taiwan, asserting that it undermines China's sovereignty and security interests. This statement was made by the Chinese Foreign Ministry on Sunday, following the White House's announcement on Friday regarding the military assistance, which includes various items and services aimed at bolstering Taiwan's defense capabilities. The aid comes just a month before President Joe Biden's term concludes, and follows a previous approval of $567 million in aid in September.
The U.S. State Department also confirmed the sale of $295 million in military equipment to Taiwan, further escalating tensions with Beijing, which views Taiwan as a part of its territory. The Chinese government has denounced these actions as a violation of the 'one China' principle, a longstanding diplomatic stance that opposes any form of Taiwanese independence.
In response to the increasing military support from the U.S., China has intensified its military presence around Taiwan, conducting significant naval deployments, including nearly 90 ships in recent exercises. This military pressure has raised concerns in Taipei and among international observers about the potential for conflict in the region.
