Taiwan President Criticizes China's Territorial Claims

Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te has questioned China's motives for seeking to annex Taiwan, suggesting that if China were truly concerned about territorial integrity, it should also reclaim land ceded to Russia in the 19th century under the Treaty of Aigun. Lai argues that China's real intention is not about territorial integrity but about achieving regional hegemony and altering the rules-based international order. Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova dismissed Lai's statements, reiterating that Russia and China have renounced territorial claims against each other and maintain strong bilateral ties. Zakharova also emphasized Russia's adherence to the 'One China' principle and advised Taiwan to focus on economic issues and peaceful reunification proposals from Beijing. Lai's remarks come amid heightened tensions and increased Chinese military activity near Taiwan, reflecting Beijing's pressure on the self-ruled island.