In a confidential meeting held in Geneva last December, Chinese officials tacitly admitted to orchestrating cyber attacks on critical U.S. infrastructure, including ports, water utilities, and airports. This acknowledgment marks a significant shift from Beijing’s previous denials and underscores the escalating cyber tensions between the two nations.

The Chinese delegation linked these cyber intrusions to the United States’ increasing policy support for Taiwan. American officials interpreted these remarks as both an admission of responsibility and a strategic warning against U.S. involvement in Taiwan-related affairs.​

The cyberattacks, attributed to a hacking group known as Volt Typhoon, have been a source of concern for U.S. national security. The Biden administration had previously warned that such intrusions could enable China to launch disruptive cyber operations during potential future conflicts.​

This revelation comes amid a backdrop of deteriorating U.S.-China relations, characterized by ongoing trade disputes and mutual accusations of cyber espionage. The U.S. has expressed intent to adopt a more aggressive stance in countering China’s cyber activities, while Beijing continues to deny involvement, accusing Washington of spreading misinformation.​

The incident highlights the complex and volatile nature of cyber diplomacy and the challenges in establishing norms and accountability in cyberspace.​

Source: The Wall Street Journal

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