Overall Highlights

• Tensions between China and Taiwan are escalating, particularly in response to U.S. involvement and military support for Taiwan.
• China criticizes Taiwan’s arms spending and U.S. policies, claiming they threaten regional stability.
• Taiwan is actively seeking international support and strengthening ties with the U.S. amid fears of increased Chinese aggression.
• Both sides are engaging in narratives to sway public opinion domestically and internationally regarding the Taiwan issue.

China Perspective (China Sources)

• China condemns U.S. policies as undermining Taiwan’s interests and provoking tensions in the region.
• Mainland spokespersons emphasize the need to combat ‘Taiwan independence’ and assert China’s sovereignty over Taiwan.
• China highlights the historical context of Taiwan’s colonization to frame its narrative against Taiwanese independence.
• Chinese outlets report on Taiwan’s military spending as a dangerous escalation that could lead to conflict.

Taiwan Perspective (Taiwan Sources)

• Taiwan warns citizens about the implications of accepting Chinese passports, framing it as a threat to national identity.
• Taiwan is strengthening its defense capabilities through joint military production with the U.S. amid fears of a blockade by China.
• Taiwanese officials express concerns over China’s narrative efforts to undermine support for Taiwan in Japan and elsewhere.
• Taiwan’s government is actively seeking to correct misconceptions about its stance on China, emphasizing its sovereignty.

Sources

This summary is based on 20 articles from the following sources:

1. [en-US] Mainland spokesperson responds to Trump’s latest remarks on Taiwan - China Daily (1/14/2026)
2. [en-US] Mainland spokesperson responds to Trump’s latest remarks on Taiwan - 新华网 (1/14/2026)
3. [en-US] The bloody history of Japanese colonization of Taiwan - news.cgtn.com (1/14/2026)
4. [en-US] Lai’s arms spending sending Taiwan to edge - China Daily (1/14/2026)
5. [en-US] ‘America First’ policy undermines Taiwan’s interests - China Daily (1/14/2026)
6. [en-US] Mainland opens a new phase in combating ‘Taiwan independence’ - Global Times (1/13/2026)
7. [en-US] China and South Korea oppose erroneous remarks by certain politician on Taiwan question: embassy - Global Times (1/13/2026)
8. [en-US] Alibaba reaffirms open-source AI commitment as it hails successes - South China Morning Post (1/13/2026)
9. [en-US] Taiwan, US launch joint production of 155mm artillery shells amid blockade fears - South China Morning Post (1/13/2026)
10. [en-US] Taiwan students join winter sports exchange in Tianjin - China Daily (1/13/2026)
11. [en-US] China to push ‘why die for Taiwan’ story in Japan during crisis: Expert - Focus Taiwan (1/14/2026)
12. [en-US] Minister warns Taiwanese about Chinese passports - Taipei Times (1/13/2026)
13. [en-US] Taiwan, US reach consensus on tariffs - Taipei Times (1/13/2026)
14. [en-US] Taiwan eases work, residency restrictions for foreign professionals - Taipei Times (1/13/2026)
15. [en-US] Taiwan issues wanted notice for Chinese CEO - Taipei Times (1/13/2026)
16. [en-US] KMT must correct stance on China - Taipei Times (1/13/2026)
17. [en-US] G7, allies discuss cutting reliance on China for rare earths - Taipei Times (1/13/2026)
18. [en-US] China Airlines, Tigerair Taiwan smash sales records in 2025 - Taipei Times (1/13/2026)
19. [en-US] APEC Shenzen visit was smooth, safe: ministry official - Taipei Times (1/13/2026)
20. [en-US] With Venezuela raid, US tells China to keep away from Americas - Taipei Times (1/13/2026)