A US delegation, led by Republican lawmaker Mike Gallagher critical of China, visits Taiwan. The group, including the chairman of the House committee on China, meets with Taiwan's President Tsai Ing-wen and VP Lai Ching-te. China condemns the visit, denouncing Taiwan's vice president and urging the US to respect the "one-China principle." Despite not officially recognizing Taiwan, the US maintains strong unofficial relations, obligated to provide defence support. Continued US engagement with Taiwan sparks tensions with China, triggering military responses.