China has issued a forceful rebuke of the United States' latest arms sale to the Taiwan region, calling it a severe violation of diplomatic agreements and a threat to regional stability. The Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian stated on Friday that the $330 million weapons deal approved this week undermines cross-strait peace and violates Washington's longstanding commitment to the one-China principle.
Analysts note the timing coincides with heightened military activity near the Taiwan Strait, where Chinese naval exercises have increased by 18% this year compared to 2024. The Taiwan authorities have yet to comment on the deal, which reportedly includes advanced radar systems and missile components.
Beijing has urged immediate cancellation of the sale, warning that continued support for "Taiwan independence separatist forces" could destabilize Asia's security landscape. The development comes as U.S. and Chinese diplomats prepare for January's APEC trade negotiations, where cross-strait relations are expected to dominate discussions.
