China's Military Complex Set to Exceed Pentagon in Size, Analysts Warn of Nuclear Preparations

China has formally challenged the United States' recently imposed 10% tariffs on Chinese products, claiming that the measures are "discriminatory and protectionist." The complaint was submitted to the World Trade Organization (WTO) just a day after U.S. President Donald Trump announced the tariffs as an effort to combat the influx of illegal drugs, alleging China's involvement in the fentanyl trade, according to BBC News. In its filing, China rejected the U.S. allegations as "unfounded and false," asserting that the tariffs violate established international trade rules. This dispute underscores growing tensions in the trade relationship between the two countries, which have already seen significant retaliatory measures. As of December, U.S. imports from China surged to a record $293.1 billion, exacerbating the trade deficit that hit $918.4 billion for the year. The WTO provides a 60-day consultation period for the U.S. and China to negotiate a resolution before further judicial measures can be pursued. However, the effectiveness of such proceedings is uncertain, as the U.S. has previously resisted complying with WTO adjudications.

Satellite images analyzed by U.S. intelligence have revealed the construction of a significant military complex located approximately 30 kilometers southwest of Beijing, China. This facility, which is reportedly ten times larger than the Pentagon, is expected to serve as a command center for China's military leadership during critical situations, particularly in potential nuclear conflicts, according to intelligence experts. The construction site spans over 600 hectares and features deep underground tunnels reinforced with heavy concrete designed for radiation protection. Reports indicate that the area is heavily guarded, making it difficult for drones to survey the site, and it has been declared off-limits to the public. Dennis Wilder, former head of the CIA's China analysis, commented, "If this information is confirmed, it would suggest that Beijing is not only building a world-class army but also developing advanced nuclear capabilities." Furthermore, it is speculated that this project, referred to as "Peking Military City," may be completed ahead of the 100th-anniversary celebrations of the People's Liberation Army in 2027. Notably, Chinese officials have not acknowledged the existence of this build, with the embassy in Washington stating they are unaware of any future plans but affirming the country’s commitment to defense policy.

China has initiated a probe into U.S. tech giant Google over alleged violations of anti-monopoly laws, as trade tensions escalate between the two nations. The State Administration for Market Regulation stated that the investigation is in accordance with the Anti-Monopoly Law of the People’s Republic of China, although specific details about the allegations have not been disclosed. The probe follows the United States imposing a 10 percent tariff on Chinese imports, which has been part of a broader trade war strategy aimed at curtailing illegal migration and drug trafficking, according to statements from U.S. officials. Google’s core search engine and many other services are blocked in China, a move attributed to the "Great Firewall" that restricts access to politically sensitive content. In addition to Google, China has listed U.S. companies PVH Corp. and Illumina as "unreliable entities" for allegedly disrupting normal market transactions with Chinese firms. This investigation reflects the increasing scrutiny U.S. tech companies face in China amidst worsening bilateral relations.