China to add sanctions to its pressures on Taiwan

China added sanctions—including visa bans—to Taiwanese politicians Tuesday as it applies pressure to the self-governing island and the U.S. after congressional visits. Five U.S. officials left Taiwan late Monday after meeting with President Tsai Ing-wen to advance economic and political ties—especially in the semiconductor industry, which is essential in computer chips. The Chinese Defense Ministry announced new military exercises around Taiwan on Monday as a “deterrent against collusion” between the U.S. and Taiwan but didn’t say when they would occur. China just finished a round of military drills last week in response to House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s visit to Taiwan. 

What message did U.S. officials send? Lo Chih-cheng, the chair of the Taiwan legislature’s Foreign and National Defense Committee said that the previous exercises were to deter U.S. officials from visiting the island. The U.S. visit shows China that the drills didn’t work, he said. China has accused the U.S. of selling weapons to Taiwan and creating political ties that recognize the country’s independence. The U.S. has said it does not support the island’s independence and has no formal political ties, however, it is legally bound to make sure the country can defend itself. 

Dig deeper: Read Erica Kwong’s report in World Tour on what it’s like living in Taiwan under China’s threat.