Former U.S. Ambassador to China Nicholas Burns Says Beijing Sought to Intimidate Washington Over Taiwan

Former U.S. Burns made the remarks in an interview with CNN's Audie Cornish that aired on May 15, 2026. The former ambassador said the Chinese side aimed its message at U.S. policy toward Taiwan. He described the approach as an effort to send a clear signal.

The interview comes amid ongoing tensions between Washington and Beijing over the self-governing island that China claims as its territory. Burns, who served as ambassador from 2022 to 2025, has remained a prominent voice on U.S.-China relations.

Discussions included potential trade measures, the situation in Iran and differences over Taiwan. U.S. officials have repeatedly stated that Washington opposes any unilateral change to the status quo by either side. Burns told Cornish that Beijing's recent moves were intended to deter continued American backing of Taiwan.

The former ambassador added that such actions are part of a pattern of Chinese signaling on the issue. >"Xi fired a shot across our bow" — Nicholas Burns (CNN) U.S. policy toward Taiwan has remained consistent across administrations, combining strategic ambiguity with concrete security assistance.

Chinese military activity around the island has increased in recent years, prompting concern in Washington and among allies in the region. No immediate policy changes were announced following the summit.