China announced new sanctions on nine U.S. military-linked companies on Wednesday, escalating tensions with the United States over arms sales to Taiwan. The sanctions, which freeze the assets of the companies within China, come as part of Beijing’s ongoing efforts to pressure Washington into halting its military support for Taiwan.

The Chinese government has repeatedly called on the U.S., a key supporter and arms supplier to the self-governing island, to stop formal dealings with Taiwan’s leadership. Beijing views Taiwan as part of its territory and has made clear its opposition to any U.S. actions that strengthen Taiwan’s defense capabilities.

Among the targeted firms are Sierra Nevada Corporation and Stick Rudder Enterprises LLC, whose assets in China were frozen effective Wednesday, according to a statement from China’s foreign ministry. The sanctions also apply to other companies including Cubic Corporation, S3 Aerospace, TCOM Ltd Partnership, TextOre, Planate Management Group, ACT1 Federal, and Exovera.

In addition to freezing the firms’ assets, the ministry declared that individuals and organizations within China are now prohibited from conducting any business with these companies.

Foreign ministry spokesperson Lin Jian reiterated China’s demand for the U.S. to end its military support to Taiwan during a press briefing. “Stop conniving and supporting Taiwan independence, and stop undermining peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait,” Lin said.

This move follows previous sanctions by China, including actions against Lockheed Martin units, in response to U.S. arms sales to Taiwan. Beijing has consistently voiced strong opposition to Washington’s military deals with the island and has demanded the U.S. withdraw its support.

In recent years, China has intensified both its military and political pressure to assert its claim over Taiwan—a claim that the government in Taipei firmly rejects.

(Adapted from USNews.com)

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