China Responds to U.S. Arms Sale to Taiwan with Threat of Countermeasures

 

China has announced it will implement “countermeasures” to protect its sovereignty following the U.S. approval of a $2 billion arms sale package to Taiwan. The Pentagon disclosed on Friday that the deal includes advanced air defense missile systems that have been battle-tested in Ukraine, marking a significant escalation in military support for the island.

The proposed arms package, which awaits Congressional approval, comprises $1.16 billion worth of missile systems and radar systems valued at approximately $828 million. The centerpiece of the sale is the National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System (Nasams), which includes the advanced AMRAAM Extended Range surface-to-air missiles.

In a statement issued late Saturday, China's foreign ministry condemned the arms sale and lodged "solemn representations" with the United States, urging it to halt its military support for Taiwan. “China will take resolute countermeasures and take all measures necessary to firmly defend national sovereignty, security, and territorial integrity,” the ministry stated, without providing specifics about the intended counteractions.

China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Lin Jian emphasized that the U.S. should stop what it described as dangerous maneuvers that threaten peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. Despite lacking formal diplomatic ties with Taiwan, the U.S. is legally obligated to provide the island with the means for self-defense, a stance that has consistently angered Beijing.

The arms deal has been welcomed by Taiwan's defense ministry, which highlighted the successful deployment of Nasams in Ukraine as evidence of the system’s efficacy. Taiwan's foreign ministry expressed its commitment to defending the island in the face of China's military threats, stating, “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.”

China has increased military activities around Taiwan over the past five years, including recent war games aimed at demonstrating its military capabilities. Beijing has not ruled out the use of force to assert its claims over the democratically governed island, which it views as a breakaway province.

In September, Beijing imposed sanctions on U.S. defense companies in retaliation for previous military sales to Taiwan, showcasing the escalating tensions between the two nations over the issue of Taiwan's defense. The latest arms package is viewed as the 17th such transaction under the Biden administration, further complicating U.S.-China relations and raising concerns about stability in the region.