Beijing: China criticized Taiwan's regional leader William Lai Ching-te on Wednesday, labeling him as a "warmonger." Zhu Fenglian, spokesperson for the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council, made this statement, accusing Lai of being a "peace disruptor" and a "troublemaker."

According to Anadolu Agency, the criticism came after Lai announced on Tuesday that Taiwan's defense spending would surpass 3%. He also highlighted the increasing military activities by China in the Taiwan Strait and the East and South China seas, describing them as unprecedented challenges to the international order. Zhu Fenglian responded by condemning Lai for escalating tensions in the Taiwan Strait and for prioritizing defense spending over the economy and welfare of the Taiwanese people.

Zhu further accused Lai of "selling out Taiwan" and causing harm to its interests and economy. He also stated that Lai manipulates democratic principles to mislead the public and promote the notion of 'Taiwan independence.'

The tension stems from China's view of Taiwan as a breakaway province, a claim that Taiwan has rejected since gaining independence in 1949. The ongoing disagreement over Taiwan's status continues to be a point of contention between the two sides.