China Sanctions Nine U.S. Firms Over Taiwan Arms Sales

China announced sanctions on nine U.S. military-linked firms due to arms sales to Taiwan, freezing their property within China. This move aims to pressure the U.S. to halt its arms dealings with Taiwan, which Beijing claims as its territory. The sanctions became effective on Wednesday.

In a significant geopolitical development, China has announced sanctions against nine U.S. military-linked companies over arms sales to Taiwan. This latest measure freezes their assets within China, reflecting Beijing's growing pushback against U.S. support for the democratically-governed island.

Among the affected entities are Sierra Nevada Corporation and Stick Rudder Enterprises LLC. Effective immediately, the sanctions block these firms from engaging in transactions within China. A statement from the foreign ministry singles out others including Cubic Corporation, S3 Aerospace, TCOM Ltd Partnership, TextOre, Planate Management Group, ACT1 Federal, and Exovera.

China's foreign ministry spokesperson, Lin Jian, called on the U.S. to cease arming Taiwan, which it views as part of its territory. Beijing has consistently opposed U.S. arms sales to Taiwan and previously sanctioned firms like Lockheed Martin for similar actions.

(With inputs from agencies.)