Selling US military hardware to Taiwan irks Beijing, says red line

The US approved the sale of aircraft parts and technical support to Taiwan for $330 million. This is the first such deal since Donald Trump took office and is aimed at strengthening Taiwan's defence capability, particularly the maintenance of F-16 and C-130 aircraft.

Washington has confirmed that the supplies will improve operational readiness and the ability to counter threats, particularly Chinese activities in the so-called "grey zone". Taipei hailed the decision as a continuation of its policy of support and said the sale will contribute to strengthening air defences.

China reacted with irritation, reminding that Taiwan is the "first red line" in US-China relations. Beijing considers the island its territory and regularly organises military flights near it.

Statements by Taiwanese officials emphasise that the future of the island can only be decided by its people.

The arms sale announcement comes after Trump and Xi Jinping met in South Korea late last month in an effort to secure a trade deal. The US president says the Chinese president has promised him not to attack Taiwan during his term in office.

(reuters, max)