Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te vowed to defend the island’s sovereignty in his New Year’s address, warning of China’s “expansionist ambitions” after Beijing conducted live-fire military drills near Taiwan.

Lai emphasized strengthening national defense, societal resilience, and building effective deterrence against potential aggression.

His remarks followed China’s objections to a planned $11 billion U.S. arms sale to Taiwan, which includes missiles, drones, and artillery systems.

Beijing condemned Lai as a “warmonger” and reiterated that Taiwan is part of China, while Xi Jinping called Taiwan’s eventual annexation “unstoppable,” NPR has reported.

Taiwan has also announced a $40 billion defense budget over eight years to enhance air defenses and maintain readiness amid China’s ongoing threats.