Chinese Defense Minister Warns Washington Against Arming Taiwan and Asserts That Beijing Will Not Tolerate the Issue of 'Territorial Unity'

Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun warned the United States against proceeding with its plans to arm Taiwan, emphasizing that these steps represent a direct threat to China's sovereignty and territorial integrity.

The warning came in statements reported by the official Xinhua News Agency on Friday, as tensions between Beijing and Washington escalate over the island that China considers an integral part of its territory.

The minister stressed that any U.S. military cooperation with Taipei would be viewed as a blatant interference in China's internal affairs, warning of 'serious consequences' if Washington continues to supply the island with advanced weapons.

He added that the Chinese military 'will not sit idly by in the face of any attempt to separate Taiwan from the motherland,' referring to Beijing's readiness to use force if necessary.

This stance comes after a series of U.S. moves, including new arms deals for Taiwan and increased military cooperation with it, which Beijing considers a crossing of red lines.

In contrast, Washington asserts that its support for Taiwan falls within its commitments to protect 'democracy' on the island and ensure its ability to defend itself.

Tensions over Taiwan are one of the most prominent points of contention between the two superpowers, alongside other issues such as the South China Sea, trade, and technology.

Beijing has repeatedly warned that 'playing with fire on the Taiwan issue will burn those who do it,' in a clear reference to the United States and its allies.