BEIJING, December 23. /TASS/. The United States is pushing Taiwan towards a dangerous situation that could escalate into an armed clash, Chinese Defense Ministry Spokesman Wu Qian said.

"The United States is breaking its solemn political promise not to back supporters of Taiwan’s independence, recklessly seeking to create turbulence in the Taiwan Strait and push Taiwan towards a dangerous situation that threatens to escalate into a war," he pointed out, commenting on Washington's move to authorize $571.3 mln in military assistance Taiwan.

Wu added that Beijing was determined to oppose interference by the US and other external forces. He added that China would firmly advocate the country’s reunification and peace in the Taiwan Strait.

US President Joe Biden earlier approved $571.3 mln in military assistance for Taiwan.

Taiwan has been governed by its local administration since 1949 when the remaining Kuomintang forces, led by Chiang Kai-shek (1887-1975), fled to the island after being defeated in China’s civil war. However, Beijing considers the island to be one of its provinces, a position shared by the majority of countries, including Russia.

Washington severed diplomatic relations with Taiwan in 1979, establishing ties with China. While recognizing the One China policy, the US continues to engage with the Taipei administration and provide weapons to the island. According to China’s estimates, the US has provided over $70 billion in military assistance to Taiwan in recent years.