China targets major US defense firms over arms sales to Taiwan

This development comes shortly before Donald Trump begins his second term as President of the United States. Despite China's previous sanctions having minimal impact, this latest action suggests an escalation in targeting US economic interests. Raymond Kuo of the RAND Corporation told VOA that these sanctions are unlikely to significantly affect the targeted companies since they generally do not conduct business with China.

In recent years, the US has bolstered Taiwan's defenses amid rising Chinese aggression. In October, another round of arms sales to Taiwan was approved by the US government, valued at $2 billion. These sales included National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile Systems (Nasams) worth approximately $1.15 billion and radar systems valued at $830 million.

Following this deal was another sale worth $385 million for F-16 spare parts and radar systems. President Biden's administration has sanctioned 18 arms sales for Taiwan to ensure it maintains self-defense capabilities against China's threats.

Additionally, Biden recently approved a support package worth $571 million for Taiwan. This includes materiel, training, and other services as part of an ongoing effort to enhance Taiwan's military capabilities.

The geopolitical tension continues as China's Liaoning aircraft carrier group recently sailed through the Taiwan Strait after exercises aimed at blocking Taiwan internationally.

While the US supports Taiwan under the Taiwan Relations Act by providing military aid, it is not obliged to offer direct military intervention like it does with Japan or South Korea. Meanwhile, China has increased its military presence near Taiwan over the past year.