China Warns US Against “Playing with Fire” Over Taiwan

Amid rising tensions in the Asia-Pacific region, China has issued a stern warning to the United States, accusing Washington of provocations over Taiwan. The statement came after U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth described China as an “imminent threat” and accused Beijing of preparing for a possible military invasion of the island during the Shangri-La Dialogue security conference in Singapore.

In an official response, the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs reiterated that Taiwan is an inalienable part of China and that any foreign attempts to interfere in its status are considered internal affairs. “We strongly urge the United States to stop playing with fire. Those who stir up the Taiwan issue will inevitably get burned,” the ministry said in its statement.

China further accused the United States of militarizing the region and promoting a “Cold War mentality,” warning that the presence of American ships and aircraft near Chinese borders increases the risk of unintended incidents. Beijing emphasized that Washington’s actions are turning the Taiwan Strait into a “powder keg.”

The Chinese government also expressed discontent with comments made by French President Emmanuel Macron, who likened the Taiwan situation to the war in Ukraine. Chinese officials rejected the comparison, calling it “inappropriate” and a reflection of “double standards,” insisting that Taiwan’s status is unique under the “One China” policy.

Analysts say the exchange of statements at the Singapore summit highlights the deepening rift between the two powers over critical security issues. Taiwan, which operates with de facto independence, remains one of the most contentious issues in U.S.-China relations. Despite American assurances of support for the status quo, Beijing continues to regard any diplomatic or military engagement with Taiwan as a violation of its sovereignty.