Jake Sullivan, the U.S. National Security Advisor, is currently visiting China. He met with Gen. Zhang Youxia, the vice chairman of the Central Military Commission, and urged him to cease military support for Russia.
According to Reuters, the White House released a statement following the meeting on Thursday, indicating that Sullivan proposed to Zhang that both countries collaborate to prevent conflict or confrontation. The statement also emphasized that both sides reaffirmed the importance of military-to-military communication and agreed to schedule a commander-level phone call shortly.
Tensions reportedly increased when Zhang raised Taiwan while Sullivan addressed China’s military support for Russia. Zhang reiterated several times that the U.S. should not interfere in Taiwan’s affairs.
He stated, “The core of the U.S.-China conflict is the Taiwan issue. The U.S. must refrain from interfering in Taiwan for a constructive relationship between our countries. We demand that the U.S. halt its arms sales to Taiwan and stop spreading false narratives about the issue.” Zhang also emphasized, “Opposing Taiwan’s independence and promoting reunification is the mission and responsibility of the Chinese military. We will firmly counter any provocations from forces supporting Taiwan’s independence.”
In response, the White House stated that Sullivan and Zhang concurred on maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. However, Sullivan also urged Zhang to cease support for Russia’s military-industrial base and called for cooperation in efforts to achieve a ceasefire in Gaza and advance negotiations for hostage situations.
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