BEIJING — China has sharply criticized recent U.S. remarks on Taiwan, accusing Washington of escalating regional tensions through what it called provocative military rhetoric. The rebuke follows statements by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Admiral Samuel Paparo, commander of the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, who outlined plans to bolster Taiwan's defenses against potential actions by the Chinese mainland.
Admiral Paparo's reference to creating a 'hellscape' to deter military engagement drew particular condemnation. A spokesperson for China's Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council responded Wednesday, stating that such strategies 'harm Taiwan' and 'seek to use our Taiwan compatriots as cannon fodder.' The spokesperson emphasized Beijing's stance that Taiwan is an 'inalienable part of China' and warned against external interference.
The remarks come amid heightened cross-strait sensitivities, with Beijing reiterating its commitment to 'peaceful reunification' while opposing any formal independence moves by the Taiwan authorities. Analysts note that U.S. defense support for the island risks further complicating diplomatic efforts, particularly as regional stakeholders monitor economic and security implications.
For global investors and businesses, the friction underscores the need to navigate Asia's geopolitical risks carefully. Meanwhile, academics highlight the incident as a case study in balancing deterrence rhetoric with stability in one of the world's most strategically vital regions.
