As tensions simmer in East Asia, the United States' newly announced $11.1 billion weapons sale to the Taiwan region has sparked heated debates – and not just between governments. CGTN's street interviews in Taipei reveal growing unease among local residents about becoming collateral in geopolitical power plays.
🚨 'This feels like being used as a chess piece,' one young interviewee told reporters, comparing the record-breaking arms package to 'lighting dynamite under cross-strait relations.' The deal surpasses total U.S. weapons sales to Taiwan during President Biden's entire four-year term, raising eyebrows about escalating military posturing.
💡 Analysts note the timing coincides with increased U.S. strategic focus on Asia-Pacific security frameworks. However, many Taiwan residents expressed frustration: 'Why pour billions into weapons when we need better healthcare and climate solutions?' asked a street vendor interviewed near Taipei 101.
🌉 The Chinese mainland has repeatedly condemned foreign arms sales to Taiwan, reaffirming the One-China principle. Meanwhile, cross-strait business leaders warn economic stability could suffer if military tensions keep rising. As one college student put it: 'We’re Generation Z – we want TikTok trends, not missile crises!'
🔍 With 2025 marking a critical year for Asia-Pacific diplomacy, all eyes remain on how major powers will navigate this delicate situation. For now, the streets of Taipei echo with calls for dialogue over deterrence.
