The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced the imposition of extensive sanctions targeting 10 individuals and 20 American companies operating in the defense sector, including the St. Louis branch of “Boeing,” in response to massive arms deals provided by the United States to Taiwan.
The ministry clarified that the sanctions include freezing any assets owned by these companies or individuals in China, preventing any dealings by local organizations and individuals with them, as well as barring the listed individuals from entering Chinese territory.
The sanctions list included the founder of the defense industry company “Anduril” and nine senior executives, alongside prominent companies such as “Northrop Grumman Systems” and “L3 Harris Maritime Services,” representing a direct Chinese message to the American military-industrial complex.
This move comes after Washington’s announcement last week of the largest arms deal for Taiwan, valued at $11.1 billion, which provoked Beijing, which considered the deal a crossing of red lines in bilateral relations.
A spokesperson for the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs affirmed that the Taiwan issue constitutes the core of China’s fundamental interests and the foremost red line in relations with the United States, adding that any provocative actions will be met with a “deterrent response,” and calling on the American administration to stop efforts to supply Taipei with weapons and adhere to previous international commitments.
China stated that economic sanctions have become part of its strategy to counter American pressures, targeting supply chains and companies that support the American stance on sensitive issues, aiming to raise the cost of military cooperation with Taiwan and deprive companies of access to the vast Chinese market.
China considers Taiwan an inalienable part of its territory and threatens to annex the island by force if necessary, while Taipei and its Western allies reject these claims and continue to enhance military support for the island.
Chinese military maneuvers around Taiwan have escalated in recent years, coinciding with Washington’s expansion of its unofficial relations with the island, making the Taiwan Strait one of the most tense areas in contemporary international politics.
China
China is one of the world’s oldest continuous civilizations, with a recorded history spanning over four millennia. It is home to numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites, such as the Great Wall and the Forbidden City, which reflect its long imperial past and profound cultural achievements. In the modern era, it has developed into a major global power with a unique blend of ancient traditions and rapid technological advancement.
America
The United States of America is a federal republic founded in 1776 after declaring independence from Great Britain. Its history spans from indigenous civilizations and European colonization to becoming a global superpower, shaped by events like westward expansion, the Civil War, and large-scale immigration.
Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs
The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs is the government body responsible for implementing China’s foreign policy and managing its diplomatic relations. It was established in its modern form after the founding of the People’s Republic of China in 1949, evolving from earlier imperial and republican-era foreign affairs offices. The ministry represents China in international affairs and oversees its embassies and consulates worldwide.
St. Louis
St. Louis, Missouri, is a major city on the Mississippi River famously known as the “Gateway to the West.” Its history is defined by its role in 19th-century westward expansion, symbolized by the iconic Gateway Arch completed in 1965. The city was a crucial hub for fur trading, transportation, and the 1904 World’s Fair.
Boeing
Boeing is an American multinational corporation founded in 1916, originally known for its pioneering role in commercial aviation and military aircraft. It has grown into one of the world’s largest aerospace manufacturers and a major provider of commercial jetliners, defense systems, and space technology.
Taiwan
Taiwan is an island in East Asia with a complex history involving indigenous cultures, periods of Dutch and Spanish colonial influence, and settlement by Han Chinese. It was administered by Japan from 1895 to 1945 and has been governed separately from mainland China since the end of the Chinese Civil War in 1949. The island is known for its vibrant democracy, technological industry, and distinct cultural identity.
United States
The United States is a federal republic founded in 1776 after declaring independence from Great Britain, with its modern government established by the Constitution in 1789. Its history includes westward expansion, a civil war over slavery, and its emergence as a global superpower in the 20th century. The nation is defined by its diverse population, democratic ideals, and significant cultural and economic influence worldwide.
Anduril
Anduril is a fictional sword from J.R.R. Tolkien’s legendarium, most prominently featured in “The Lord of the Rings.” It was forged from the shards of Narsil, the sword that cut the One Ring from Sauron’s hand, and was remade for Aragorn as a symbol of his rightful claim to the throne of Gondor.
Northrop Grumman Systems
Northrop Grumman Systems is a major American aerospace and defense technology company formed by the 1994 merger of Northrop Corporation and Grumman Corporation. Its history traces back to both companies’ significant roles in 20th-century military aviation, including the production of iconic aircraft like the Grumman F6F Hellcat and the Northrop B-2 Spirit stealth bomber. Today, it is a leading global provider of manned and unmanned aircraft, space systems, and advanced cybersecurity solutions.
L3 Harris Maritime Services
L3 Harris Maritime Services is a division of L3Harris Technologies, a global aerospace and defense technology company, specializing in providing integrated systems and services for maritime operations. Its history is rooted in the broader legacy of its parent company, which was formed through the merger of L3 Technologies and Harris Corporation in 2019, combining decades of expertise in communications, electronic warfare, and sensor systems for naval and commercial vessels.
Washington
Washington, D.C., the capital of the United States, was founded in 1790 as a federal district to serve as the nation’s permanent seat of government. It is home to iconic landmarks like the White House and the U.S. Capitol, which were largely constructed in the late 18th and early 19th centuries following plans by Pierre L’Enfant.
Beijing
Beijing is the capital of China, with a history spanning over three millennia as a significant political and cultural center. It served as the seat of imperial power during several dynasties, most notably the Ming and Qing, and is home to UNESCO World Heritage Sites like the Forbidden City and the Great Wall. Today, it is a major global metropolis that blends ancient historical architecture with modern urban development.
Taipei
Taipei is the capital city of Taiwan, officially known as the Republic of China (ROC). Its modern history began in the late 19th century under Qing Dynasty rule, followed by Japanese administration from 1895 to 1945, before becoming the seat of the ROC government after 1949. The city is a major cultural and economic hub, home to landmarks like the Taipei 101 skyscraper and the National Palace Museum.
Taiwan Strait
The Taiwan Strait is a 180-kilometer-wide waterway separating mainland China and the island of Taiwan. It has historically served as a crucial shipping route and a strategic military zone. The strait’s political status is central to the cross-strait relations between the People’s Republic of China and the Taiwan region.
