Trump-China Relations Latest: Chinese Threatening PEOTUS Over Taiwan Before Inauguration?

China’s state-run media shot back Monday at President-elect Donald Trump, saying the government will “take off the gloves” if Trump continues his rhetoric about the “One China” policy on Taiwan and the mainland, Reuters reported.

Beijing was responding to Trump’s interview with the Wall Street Journal published Friday, during which he said, in reference to U.S.-China relations, "Everything is under negotiation, including 'One China.' "

"One China" refers to Beijing's view that Taiwan is not a separate and independent country from mainland China -- despite Taipei's desires to the contrary.

Two state-run newspapers, The Global Times and China Daily, each ran pieces that directly called out Trump.

"If Trump is determined to use this gambit in taking office, a period of fierce, damaging interactions will be unavoidable, as Beijing will have no choice but to take off the gloves," China Daily wrote.

The “One China” policy has been widely accepted for decades by U.S. officials and previous administrations. The comments likely stand to worsen a situation that became tense after Trump accepted a congratulatory phone call from Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen following his election victory in November.

China quickly made its displeasure with Trump’s recent statement known.

"The 'One China' principle is the political foundation of Sino-US relations and it is non-negotiable. We urge the relevant side in the US to recognize the high sensitivity of the Taiwan issue and abide by the pledges by successive US administrations from both parties," spokesperson Lu Kang said Saturday, according to CNN.

Perhaps issuing a call of support from other nations, Lu indicated that the “One China” policy is widely accepted around the globe.

"There is only one China in the world. Taiwan is an inseparable part of Chinese territory and the People's Republic of China is the sole legitimate government representing China," Lu said. "These are facts recognized by the international community and no one can change this."

Trump, who will take the Oath of Office Friday, spent much of his campaign hammering China for its trade and economic policies and pledged to “Make America Great Again” by being “tougher” with China, an economic superpower that’s surged under policies Trump has labeled as unfair.