TLDR:
• China sanctions seven US defence firms
• US arms sales undermine regional peace
• Beijing urges compliance with one-China policy
BEIJING (The Thursday Times) — China has announced sanctions against seven American defence corporations and senior executives in response to US military aid and arms sales to Taiwan. Beijing’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs accused Washington of violating the one-China principle and undermining regional stability, signalling further escalation in the geopolitical standoff.
Sanctions target defence giants
China’s countermeasures come as a direct response to what it describes as provocative actions by the US. By arming Taiwan and including anti-China clauses in its recent defence legislation, Washington has, according to Beijing, crossed diplomatic red lines. The sanctions aim to curb the influence of key US defence corporations accused of fuelling instability in the Taiwan Strait.
US policies deepen cold war mentality
Beijing criticised the US for adopting a Cold War mindset, using the “China threat” narrative to justify military support for Taiwan and increased defence spending. The Chinese government sees this approach as an ideological campaign designed to maintain American hegemony, disrupt regional peace, and contain China’s rise on the global stage.
Beijing reaffirms one-China principle
China reiterated its commitment to safeguarding its sovereignty and territorial integrity, urging the US to halt arms sales to Taiwan immediately. Beijing called for adherence to the one-China principle and the 1982 joint communiqué, emphasising that continued interference would have severe consequences for US-China relations. China also warned that it would not hesitate to escalate countermeasures to protect its national interests.