ASIATODAY.ID, JAKARTA – Tensions in East Asia have soared after the United States approved its largest-ever arms package for Taiwan, worth $11.1 billion, prompting China to condemn the move and demand that Washington immediately halt weapons deliveries to the island it claims as its territory.
“China urges the United States to respect the One-China principle and immediately stop the dangerous actions of arming Taiwan,” said Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun on Thursday, December 18, 2025.
Largest Arms Deal Ever Approved for Taiwan
The package includes eight separate purchases, featuring: 82 HIMARS rocket systems, 420 ATACMS missiles valued at over $4 billion, Anti-tank and anti-armor missiles, Loitering suicide drones, Howitzers, military software, and spare parts.
This is the second major arms sale since President Donald Trump returned to office in January 2025, following a $330 million deal in November for aircraft parts and components.
Taiwan Boosts Military Modernization
Under US encouragement, Taiwan has ramped up weapons purchases in recent years. The Taiwanese Ministry of Defense stated the package will maintain adequate self-defense capabilities, build strong deterrent power, and leverage asymmetric warfare advantages as a foundation for regional peace and stability.
“The package is still at the congressional notification stage, where lawmakers can block or modify the sale,” the ministry added.
US Continues Support Despite One-China Policy
Officially, the US adheres to the One-China policy, yet it continues military cooperation and arms supply to Taipei, pledging support if conflict arises with mainland China.
China insists on pursuing “peaceful reunification”, but has repeatedly warned it will use military force should Taiwan formally declare independence. Taiwan, self-ruled since 1949, remains a global geopolitical flashpoint. (AT Network)
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