China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson denounced the US reaction to its military drills around Taiwan, which followed House Speaker Pelosi's visit to the island, during a briefing in Beijing on Friday.

"The US side's malicious provocation comes first and China's legitimate defence comes later. China's countermeasures are the necessary warnings to the provocateur and legitimate defence of national sovereignty and security," said Hua Chunying.

"Now, the US and some of its followers have jumped out to accuse China of overreacting," she continued. "If they really care about regional peace and stability, why didn't they stand up earlier to discourage Pelosi from visiting?"

Beijing repeatedly warned the US of 'counter-measures' should Nancy Pelosi’s visit go ahead, announcing the series of military drills around Taiwan. It has now sanctioned Pelosi and her family, following the trip to Taipei.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken said that he hoped China would not 'manufacture a crisis' out of the situation. The US also increased its presence in the area, moving USS Ronald Reagan aircraft carrier to waters southeast of the island.