‘Those who play with fire’: China openly threatens US

China has issued a warning to the United States after the U.S. began joint military exercises with the Philippines.

During a visit to Manila, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth pledged continued military support to the Southeast Asian nation to counter what he described as “Communist aggression from China.” He also announced that NMESIS missile systems would be deployed as part of the drills.

These missiles were airlifted into several regions of the Philippines, according to the 3rd Marine Littoral Regiment.

“At present, the international community is facing the impact of unilateralism, protectionism, bullying, and hegemony,” said Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun on Monday.

The Chinese spokesperson further claimed that the military exercises “undermine regional strategic stability” as well as “economic growth prospects” in the region.

Beijing has consistently reiterated its goal of reunifying Taiwan with mainland China, while the self-governed island continues to prepare for a potential invasion.

“Those who play with fire will set themselves on fire,” the official warned.

(QG - Source: Newsweek - Picture : © Unsplash)