China’s military began large war exercises near Taiwan on Monday as a warning to Taiwan’s government, which China says is trying to be independent. Taiwan, a country that has its own government, does not want to be controlled by China. But China still claims Taiwan as part of its territory.
Taiwan’s President, Lai Ching-te, recently gave a speech saying China has no right to represent Taiwan. In response, China’s military, called the Eastern Theatre Command, started drills in the Taiwan Strait and areas north, south, and east of Taiwan. They said the exercises were a “warning” to those wanting Taiwan to be independent and claimed they were necessary to protect China’s unity.
The drills involve Chinese ships and airplanes moving close to Taiwan from different directions. They are practicing sea and air attacks, blockades around key ports, and other military maneuvers. China also sent its aircraft carrier and supporting ships east of Taiwan, but they did not announce any live-fire exercises or restricted areas like in 2022 when missiles were fired over Taiwan.
Taiwan’s defense forces responded by sending their own ships and planes to monitor the situation. Taiwan’s leaders said China is ignoring their offers for peace and cooperation, adding that using military force goes against the United Nations’ goal of peacefully resolving conflicts.
The U.S. government, concerned about the drills, called on China to show restraint and avoid actions that could threaten peace in the region. U.S. officials said there was no reason for China to start these exercises after President Lai’s regular speech.
Chinese media also shared a video showing military jets and warships surrounding Taiwan, symbolizing a strong stance against Taiwan’s independence. Meanwhile, Taiwan’s people and stock markets are mostly calm despite the tension.
Taiwan’s presidential office called for China to respect Taiwan’s choice to live freely and avoid military threats. However, Chinese military leaders have said they will continue taking action as long as Taiwan pushes for independence.
This is not the first time China has held such drills. In May, China ran similar exercises to punish Taiwan after President Lai took office. Although President Lai has repeatedly offered to talk with China, China refuses to engage, standing firm in its claim over Taiwan.
