China Condemns Record US Arms Sale to Taiwan, Warns Japan Amid Military Drills

Beijing Issues Strong Condemnation Over US Arms Deal

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi today, Tuesday, December 30, 2025, delivered a sharp rebuke to the United States over its recent record arms sale to Taiwan, emphasizing China's unwavering stance on reunification. Speaking at an end-of-the-year diplomatic event in Beijing, Wang stated that China would 'forcefully counter' the large-scale US weapons sales.

The US State Department announced the arms package, valued at over $11 billion, on December 17, 2025. This deal, structured as eight separate packages, is considered the largest US weapons package ever for Taiwan. The comprehensive sale includes critical military hardware such as:

• HIMARS rocket systems
• ATACMS missiles
• Artillery components
• Drones
• Anti-tank weapons
• Military software

The US justified the sale by stating it serves 'U.S. national, economic, and security interests by supporting Taiwan's ongoing efforts to modernize its armed forces and sustain a credible defense capability.'

Criticism Extends to Japanese Leadership

Beyond the US arms deal, Wang Yi also directed strong criticism towards Japan's leaders and 'pro-independence forces in Taiwan.' He specifically called out Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi for suggesting Japan might militarily intervene in a potential Taiwan conflict. Wang accused Japan's leaders of 'openly challenging China's territorial sovereignty, the historical conclusions of World War II and the post-war international order,' and urged vigilance against 'the resurgence of Japanese militarism.'

Military Drills and Sanctions Mark China's Response

China's condemnation comes amidst a heightened period of military activity and diplomatic measures. Coinciding with Wang Yi's statements, the People's Liberation Army (PLA) launched two days of large-scale military drills around Taiwan, starting Monday, December 29, 2025. These exercises, code-named 'Justice Mission 2025,' involved 'long-range live fire drills in the waters to the north of the Taiwan Island' and featured new amphibious assault ships, bomber aircraft, and warships.

Furthermore, on Friday, December 26, 2025, China announced sanctions against 20 US weapons manufacturing firms and 10 senior executives in direct response to the arms sales.

Reunification Remains 'Historical Mission'

Wang Yi reiterated China's long-standing position on Taiwan, stating that 'the Taiwan question is China's internal affair' and at the 'core of China's core interests.' He reaffirmed China's aim for 'complete reunification' with Taiwan, describing it as a 'historical mission' that 'must be fulfilled.' Wang warned that any attempt to obstruct this reunification 'will inevitably end in failure.' Taiwan, a self-ruled island, maintains that it was never part of the People's Republic of China and that only its people can decide its future.