China Condemns US Plans to Accelerate Taiwan Arms Sales

China has strongly condemned the United States' reported plans to increase arms sales to Taiwan, labeling it a violation of the one-China principle and a dangerous move that risks escalating tensions in the Taiwan Strait. Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian emphasized that the Taiwan issue is a core national interest and the "first red line" that must not be crossed in China-US relations, urging Washington to halt arms sales and adhere to existing joint communiqués. Reports indicate that the U.S. intends to approve weapons deals to Taiwan over the next four years exceeding the $18.65 billion total from President Trump's first term, with sales expected to include missiles, munitions, and drones. Taiwan has been actively enhancing its military capabilities with U.S. support, exemplified by recent live-fire tests of U.S.-made HIMARS rocket systems and accelerated deliveries of advanced weaponry, despite the absence of formal diplomatic relations. The buildup reflects Taiwan's efforts to counter Beijing's growing military threats, while the U.S. remains Taiwan's principal arms supplier, fueling Beijing's warnings of a threat to its sovereignty and territorial integrity. These developments have strained China-US relations amid a fragile period of tentative economic engagement and diplomatic dialogue.