China Sanctions 20 US Defense Firms, 10 Execs Over Taiwan Arms Deal

• China sanctioned 20 US defense firms and 10 executives in response to a large-scale US arms sale to Taiwan.
• Sanctions include freezing assets in China and prohibiting business with Chinese entities.
• The US arms package, valued over USD 10 billion, includes missiles, howitzers, and drones.
• Affected firms include Boeing's St Louis production hub.
• China views Taiwan as a "core interest" and a "red line," warning the US against further provocations.

Why It Matters: China retaliates against US arms sales to Taiwan with sanctions, escalating tensions over its 'core interest'.