Beijing has warned the United States that sending Nancy Pelosi to Taiwan would have ramifications, and that America would “pay the price” for her visit to Taipei.
Four United States warships, including the carrier USS Reagan, are positioned off the east coast of Taiwan in the Philippines Sea should conflict arise.

Reports began flooding Chinese social media Tuesday that Beijing has positioned tanks on the beaches of Fujian along the Taiwan Strait.

On Tuesday, in a controversial move, China flew warplanes close to the median line between the countries, dividing the Taiwan strait. And Chinese warships have remained close to the unofficial dividing line for over twenty-four hours.

According to the Chinese state media outlet The Global Times, soldiers have committed to fighting if needed,

‘We are fully prepared for any eventuality. Fight upon order, bury every intruder, and move toward joint and successful operations,’

‘We are PLA soldiers; we swear to defend the motherland to the death.’

When asked what response would come from Beijing, Chinese spokesperson Zhao Lijian said a Pelosi visit to Taiwan is ‘a gross interference in China’s internal affairs’ warning ‘the Chinese People’s Liberation Army will never sit idly by.’ Zhao continued with a veiled threat over China’s response  ‘If she dares to go, then let us wait and see.’

Taiwan is reportedly preparing its air raid shelters and ran drills for preparedness in late July. Taiwan’s Defense Ministry said it fully understands military activities near Taiwan and will appropriately dispatch forces in reaction to ‘enemy threats.’

On Monday, Pelosi began her Asia tour in Singapore, heading to Malaysia on Tuesday. A visit to Taiwan was not mentioned in her itinerary, and Taiwan’s foreign ministry did not comment on Pelosi’s travel plans. The United States would not confirm the trip either but said Pelosi had the right to go to Taiwan.

Other countries have weighed in on the mounting conflict. Russian spokesman Dmitry Peskov affirmed

‘absolute solidarity with China and accused the U.S. of its poor handling of the Taiwan situation, saying,

‘Instead of dealing with this sensitivity with respect, the U.S. has regrettably chosen the path of confrontation,’ he added. ‘It will bring no good. We can only express regret.’

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