Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) Minister Chiu Chui-cheng has publicly condemned China's actions as the primary destabilizing force in the Taiwan Strait. He argues that Beijing's aggressive military tactics and attempts to erase Taiwan's sovereignty are the real sources of tension, not Taipei. Chiu highlighted the importance of U.S. support, noting that arms sales from the United States are crucial for Taiwan's defense and maintaining peace in the region. He reiterated Taiwan's commitment to preserving its democratic status while clarifying that maintaining the current status quo does not equate to advocating for formal independence. Additionally, Chiu criticized the opposition Chinese Nationalist Party (KMT) for potentially undermining Taiwan's defense capabilities through budget delays. He warned that any political group aligning with Beijing's narratives risks aiding China's strategy against Taiwan. Chiu's statements reflect ongoing concerns about China's expanding influence and assertiveness in the region.