China Vows ‘Countermeasures’ after Approval of $2 Billion US Arms Sale to Taiwan

The US, bound by law to help Taiwan defend itself despite the absence of formal diplomatic relations, has frequently angered Beijing with arms sales to the democratically governed island.

On Friday, the Pentagon confirmed the approval of a $2 billion weapons package, including an advanced air defense missile system, previously tested in Ukraine, marking the first time such technology would be provided to Taiwan.

In a statement released late Saturday, China’s foreign ministry strongly condemned the sale, stating it had lodged “solemn representations” with Washington.

China urged the US to halt arms deliveries to Taiwan, warning that these actions jeopardize peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait.

"China will take resolute countermeasures and all necessary actions to firmly defend national sovereignty, security, and territorial integrity," the ministry said, without specifying further details.

Over the past five years, China has intensified military activities around Taiwan, including large-scale war games earlier this month, as it continues to assert its sovereignty over the island. Taiwan’s government, however, rejects Beijing's claims.

Welcoming the US arms sale, Taiwan’s foreign ministry expressed gratitude for the support.

The sale marks the 17th arms package approved by the Biden administration for Taiwan, further bolstering the island's defenses amid growing tensions in the region.