China Snubs US Defense Talks Amid Rising Tensions in Southeast Asia

China's defense minister has declined a meeting with U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, marking a pause in high-level military talks between the two nations. The refusal comes amid tensions over U.S. arms sales to Taiwan, which China views as part of its territory. Despite recent meetings between Chinese leader Xi Jinping and U.S. President Joe Biden, and previous military dialogues, the decision to halt talks reflects ongoing diplomatic strains. The U.S. continues to emphasize the importance of maintaining open communication channels with China.