Taiwan’s armed forces have officially been placed on high alert as it “prepares for war” with China over US Senator Nancy Pelosi’s visit.

Taiwan has reportedly placed its military on high alert and canceled the leave of some officials and soldiers as it ‘prepares for war with China over the observed visit of US Senator Nancy Pelosi.

Following a high-level briefing, the military has mobilized air defense forces to “immediately prepare for war,” according to Taiwanese news outlets.

It also comes as US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi begins a four-country tour of Asia on Monday. Pelosi is expected to arrive in Taiwan on Tuesday night, becoming the highest-ranking elected US official to visit in much more than 25 years, according to local media.

A visit by a US official will upset China, which respects Taiwan as its own land and has given warning of “serious consequences” if the reported trip decides to proceed.

“Those who play with fire will perish by it. We would like to once again admonish the US that we are fully prepared for any eventuality and the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) will never sit idly by,” Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Zhao Lijian was quoted as saying by AP.