Cartoon by Tan Xiguang

In disregard of China's solemn representation and repeated warnings, the United States allowed Taiwan leader Tsai Ing-wen to make a "transit" trip through the U. S. and hold a high-profile meeting with U.S. House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, the third highest-ranking official of the U.S. government.

Other U.S. officials and lawmakers also had contacts with Tsai and provided the platform for her separatist rhetoric for “Taiwan independence”.

The "transit" trip is essentially a provocative move taken by the Taiwan leader to seek independence by soliciting support from the U.S. It has drawn firm opposition and strong indignation from people in Taiwan.

The Taiwan question is at the very core of China's core interests, the bedrock of the political foundation of China-U.S. relations, and the first red line that must not be crossed in China-U.S. relations. Seeking "Taiwan independence" leads to a dead end. By supporting separatist forces advocating "Taiwan independence," the U.S. side has exposed its egregious nature.