China warns of "consequences" of Pelosi's visit to Taiwan

China has warned the US about the consequences of a visit by US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi to Taiwan.

China warns of "consequences" of Pelosi's visit to Taiwan

China has warned the US about the consequences of a visit by US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi to Taiwan. Washington will face "any consequences that may arise" if it "rushes forward and challenges China's fundamental principles," Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian told journalists on Wednesday. "We are strictly against a visit by Speaker Pelosi to Taiwan."

Democrat Pelosi recently told journalists that "it's important for us to show our support for Taiwan." However, she denied that the US Congress was committed to Taiwan independence. As Speaker of the House of Representatives, Pelosi holds the third highest office in the United States.

Recently, tensions between the two countries had increased significantly, especially over the Taiwan issue. China sees Taiwan as a breakaway province that should be reunited with the mainland - if necessary with military force. The Russian war of aggression against Ukraine has recently fueled fears that Beijing could use a similar approach when dealing with Taiwan.

A possible visit by Pelosi to Taiwan - which the politician herself has not yet confirmed - has sparked fears in President Joe Biden's administration that it could cross a red line for Beijing. Biden said last week that the US military believes such a visit "is not a good idea at this point."