Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Wang Wenbin stated that US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi should have visited Afghanistan, Iran, Syria, and Libya instead of Taiwan, where the US military has killed over 100,000 civilians.

"Pelosi’s visit to Taiwan had nothing to do with democracy. It was a political show that went against the will of more than 1.4 billion Chinese, including Taiwanese compatriots, and challenged the 'One China' principle recognized by the international community," Wang said.

Pelosi stated earlier this week that the US cannot allow China to establish a "new normal" in Taiwan.

"If Pelosi truly cares about democracy and human rights, then she should visit Afghanistan, Iraq, Syria and Libya and repent to the 100,000 innocent people who died under the fire of the US military, as well as guarantee that the US will never again maliciously violate the UN Charter and basic norms of international relations," Wang stressed.

Despite warnings from China, which considers Taiwan to be part of its territory and opposes any direct official foreign contacts with Taipei, the US official visited Taiwan last Thursday as part of an Asia tour.

Possible irreversible repercussions 

The risky visit taken by the US administration and Pelosi caused a wave of geopolitical repercussions and global alarm for fear of escalating tensions. Ahead of her arrival, not only did it prompt China to assemble its military assets and personnel, but Taiwan also administered drills on the island to prepare for a worst-case scenario, in the event war breaks out. 

Asian and global markets took a sharp fall as well. Stocks in cities like Sydney, Jakarta, Tokyo, and Shanghai saw a deep drop in value amid rising inflation and increasing prices. Following the impacts of Pelosi’s visit and departure, Russian diplomat Lavrov still pressed the US to remain committed to the One China policy and avoid further provocations. 

"Based on the relevant legislation of China, the Chinese side has decided to impose sanctions on Pelosi and her close relatives following her provocative actions," the statement read. China has, since then, vowed to reunify with Taiwan, considering it a matter of “historic imminence”.