China Imposes Sanctions on U.S. Defense Companies and Executives

International News Department 06-12-2024

Beijing has introduced new sanctions targeting U.S. defense firms and senior executives, urging Washington to fulfill its commitment to oppose “Taiwan independence” and immediately halt arms sales to Taiwan.

The Chinese Foreign Ministry announced on Thursday that sanctions would be imposed on 13 U.S. defense-related companies and six high-ranking executives in response to recent arms sales to Taiwan.

These sales, according to the ministry, “gravely violate the one-China principle and the three China-U.S. joint communiques, seriously interfere in China’s internal affairs, and undermine China’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.”

Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian reiterated during a daily briefing that “Taiwan independence” is incompatible with peace in the Taiwan Strait.

“U.S. attempts to support ‘Taiwan independence’ by providing arms to Taiwan will not shake our determination to oppose separatist agendas and achieve national reunification,” Lin stated. He warned that such actions could escalate tensions in the region and push Taiwan toward greater military risk.

The sanctions target U.S. companies such as Teledyne Brown Engineering, Inc., BRINC Drones, Inc., and Rapid Flight LLC. Measures include freezing their assets in China and banning Chinese organizations and individuals from engaging in transactions or cooperation with them.

Additionally, six executives, including Barbara Borgonovi of Raytheon’s Naval Power division and Charles Woodburn, CEO of BAE Systems Land and Armaments, face personal sanctions. Their assets in China will be frozen, and they are barred from entering the country, including Hong Kong and Macao.

The sanctions, which became effective Thursday, are grounded in China’s Anti-Foreign Sanctions Law.

Meanwhile, Taiwan leader Lai Ching-te’s recent phone conversation with U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson drew sharp criticism from Beijing.

Spokesperson Lin emphasized that the Taiwan issue is central to China’s core interests and represents a red line in China-U.S. relations.

“Beijing urges Washington to recognize the severe risks posed by secessionist actions promoting ‘Taiwan independence,’ stop meddling in China’s domestic affairs, and cease sending the wrong signals to separatist forces,” Lin said.

He concluded by reaffirming China’s commitment to safeguarding its sovereignty and territorial integrity through firm and decisive measures.