U.S. Sells Record $11 Billion in Arms to Taiwan, China Threatens Force

The United States has announced its largest-ever arms sale to Taiwan, valued at $11 billion. China immediately condemned the move, promising "forceful measures" to protect its sovereignty. Beijing views Taiwan as a breakaway province. It opposes all foreign military contact with the island. Professor Rex Li, an International Relations expert at King’s College London, analyzed the sale. He called it a clear attempt to "use Taiwan to contain China." The U.S. government states such sales are necessary for Taiwan’s self-defense. This long-standing policy maintains Taiwan’s military capability. The deal increases tension between Washington and Beijing. China has not specified what retaliatory actions it may take.