China announced on Wednesday sanctions against American companies that sell arms to Taiwan, the self-ruled and independent island. Beijing claims Taiwan as its territory and has threatened to annex it by force.
Chinese state media announced the news, citing China’s Foreign Ministry. However, they did not provide any details about the companies involved. Taiwan awaits the delivery of F-16 fighters, Abrams tanks, and a variety of missiles by the U.S.
China is increasing its threats against Taiwan. Its 2.3 million residents are overwhelmingly in favor of their current de-facto status. The U.S. is obligated to provide armaments for the island, despite their lack of formal diplomatic relations.
Taiwan is also reviving the domestic arms industry, in addition to buying weapons from America. The construction of a fleet of subs began, and the mandatory military service period for men was extended by one year.
China demanded that U.S. companies stop cooperating with Taiwan’s military forces in the past, but this did not seem to have any effect.
