BEIJING: China has warned that efforts to contain its rise are “doomed to fail,” following the US Defense Department’s announcement that curbing China would be a priority in 2026 while maintaining respectful bilateral ties.
Defence Ministry spokesman Jiang Bin said during a news briefing that “facts have proven that any attempt to contain or block China is doomed to fail.” At the same time, he expressed willingness to “work with the US side” to promote cooperation, noting President Donald Trump is expected to visit China in April for talks with President Xi Jinping.
The US 2026 National Defense Strategy (NDS) emphasized deterring China in the Indo-Pacific “through strength, not confrontation,” marking a softer approach compared to previous policy. The document encourages “respectful relations” with Beijing and notably omits references to Taiwan, a self-governed territory claimed by China.
However, the strategy reaffirms US plans to strengthen a “strong denial defense” along the First Island Chain, including Japan and Taiwan. Jiang criticized Washington for “saying one thing while doing the opposite on issues concerning China’s core interests” and pledged that Beijing will “resolutely safeguard” these interests.
In December, China conducted live-fire military drills around Taiwan in response to a large arms sale to the island by the United States, reflecting ongoing tensions in the region.
