China warns U.S. over Taiwan tensions amid invasion claims

The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement cautioning the United States against "playing with fire" regarding Taiwan. This statement is a reaction to remarks made by U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth, who accused China of preparing for an invasion of Taiwan.

In a statement from the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, published just before noon Eastern Time, it was emphasized that Beijing has lodged a protest with the American diplomatic authorities. Chinese authorities expressed opposition to the use of the Taiwan issue as a negotiating tool by the U.S.

During the Shangri-La Dialogue conference in Singapore, Hegseth accused China of preparing to use military force in the Asia-Pacific region. His speech was also attended by French President Emmanuel Macron, highlighting the international nature of the event.

China did not send a representative to the Shangri-La Dialogue conference, the largest security and defense forum in Asia. Beijing considers the Taiwan issue to be an internal matter of China, and other countries should not interfere.

Chinese authorities emphasize that the United States should not use Taiwan as a tool to limit China's influence. Beijing warns that such actions could lead to a dangerous escalation of tensions.

In the face of growing tensions in the region, the situation around Taiwan remains a key point of contention in China-U.S. relations. In April, China conducted maneuvers around Taiwan, practising, among other things, blocking the island.

In recent days, China-U.S. relations have also become tense due to the trade war. Donald Trump accused China of violating the terms of a preliminary trade agreement. He also cancelled visas for Chinese students.