China imposes sanctions on American defense leader over Taiwan weapons sale
Date
6/26/2024 7:39:10 AM
(MENAFN) In a significant escalation of tensions, Beijing has announced sanctions targeting subsidiaries and senior executives of United States defense giant Lockheed Martin due to its involvement in arms sales to Taiwan, which China vehemently opposes on grounds of violating its One-China principle. The Chinese Foreign Ministry released a statement on Friday detailing measures that will freeze both movable and immovable assets belonging to the corporation and its top executives within China. Additionally, those sanctioned, including Lockheed Martin CEO James Teclit and other key figures, will be barred from entering the country.
The sanctions specifically target Lockheed Martin subsidiaries such as the Missile Systems Integration Laboratory, Advanced Technologies Laboratory, and Lockheed Martin Ventures, alongside executives like Chief Operating Officer Frank St. John and Chief Financial Officer Jesse Malefe.
This move by China follows recent United States approvals for a substantial arms sale to Taiwan, valued at USD360 million, encompassing hundreds of armed drones and missiles. Among the weaponry included are Altius-600M unmanned aerial vehicles armed with warheads and 720 Switchblade kamikaze drones, known for their extended-range loitering capabilities, accompanied by fire control systems.
Previously, Beijing had imposed sanctions on 12 American defense contractors, including Lockheed Martin subsidiaries and executives, in response to ongoing United States efforts to supply advanced military equipment to Taiwan. These measures, involving asset freezes and travel bans, reflect China's firm opposition to what it views as unauthorized interference in its domestic affairs and the Taiwan issue.
The broader context includes heightened geopolitical tensions between the United States and China, exacerbated by Washington's policies on Taiwan and reciprocal measures taken by Beijing in response to perceived infringements on its sovereignty. The situation underscores the complex dynamics of United States-China relations, particularly concerning strategic military alliances and regional stability in East Asia.
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