What's happened
On December 1, 2024, China's foreign ministry condemned the US for its recent arms sales to Taiwan, claiming it infringes on China's sovereignty. The US plans to deliver military support worth $320 million, further straining US-China relations amid ongoing tensions over Taiwan's status.
Why it matters
What the papers say
According to the South China Morning Post, China's foreign ministry stated that the US arms sales 'seriously undermine China’s sovereignty and security interests.' This sentiment is echoed by AP News, which highlights the US Navy's commitment to maintaining navigational rights in the region, despite China's claims over Taiwan. Business Insider UK adds that the growing military partnership between Russia and China complicates the situation further, as both nations enhance their military capabilities. The contrasting perspectives illustrate the heightened stakes in the Taiwan Strait, with the US aiming to bolster Taiwan's defenses while China perceives these actions as direct threats to its sovereignty.
How we got here
The US has been a key supporter of Taiwan, providing military assistance under the Taiwan Relations Act since 1979. Recent arms sales have intensified following Taiwan's leadership under William Lai, who has made statements perceived as promoting independence.
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More on these topics
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Taiwan, officially the Republic of China, is a country in East Asia. Neighbouring countries include the People's Republic of China to the northwest, Japan to the northeast, and the Philippines to the south.
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China, officially the People's Republic of China, is a country in East Asia. It is the world's most populous country, with a population of around 1.4 billion in 2019.
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The United States of America, commonly known as the United States or America, is a country mostly located in central North America, between Canada and Mexico.