World War 3: China pushes back against US for lifting restrictions on official contacts with Taiwan

China’s soured relations with the United States especially over the latter’s relations with Taiwan may have peaked in recent weeks. The two nations risk sparking an all-out conflict or world war 3 with China pushing back against the news of Washington lifting its own restrictions on official communication with the island nation.

China’s foreign ministry spokesman Zhao Lijian criticized the move made by the US to lift restrictions on its diplomatic communications with Taiwan. Zhao cited that it violates the diplomatic relations between Washington and Beijing. US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo lifted the restrictions over the weekend, citing that this was only done to “appease” the Chinese government. Zhao added in his criticism that China may retaliate against the US and urged Washington to uphold the one-China principle.

“The Chinese people’s resolve to defend our sovereignty and territorial integrity is unshakable and we will not permit any person or any force to stop the process of China’s reunification,” said Zhao. “Any actions which will harm China’s core interests will be met with a firm counter-attack and will not succeed.”

The state news outlet Xinhua news agency published its response to Pompeo’s announcement. The outlet claimed that Pompeo is trying to damage bilateral ties rather than promote world peace. Another outlet, the China Global Television Network, also described the decision as “a cowardly act of sabotage of the incoming administration” citing the US’ shift in leadership as Joe Biden is set to assume the presidency in six days.

China has claimed sovereignty over Taiwan, viewing the island nation as a breakaway province that they are actively seeking to reunite. However, the Taiwanese government has refused to acknowledge China’s claims, insisting on its autonomy.

Meanwhile, fears of a World War 3 situation have also been stoked surrounding the relations between the US and North Korea. North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un issued a threat to the US, vowing that they will continue their nuclear weapons development no matter who is in the White House. Kim added that the US would always be regarded by North Korea as its biggest adversary. Kim made the address to the US over the weekend upon assuming the position of general secretary in the ruling political party, saying that North Korea should work on deterring moves made by Washington.