TAIPEI, Taiwan — Taiwan is on high alert after its defense ministry detected a Chinese aircraft carrier group near its southern waters on Sunday. The Chinese carrier, the Liaoning, was spotted approaching the Bashi Channel and may continue into the western Pacific Ocean. Taiwan’s military is closely watching the situation and is ready to act if necessary.
In recent years, China has increased its military activity around Taiwan, including sending warplanes and maintaining ships in the area. This recent detection of the Liaoning comes just days after U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken warned China against taking any aggressive action towards Taiwan. His warning followed a speech by Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te on Taiwan’s National Day, where he strongly opposed China’s claims over the island.
Lai, whom China calls a “separatist,” said Taiwan would resist any efforts to be taken over by China, making it clear that Taiwan and Beijing are not “subordinate” to each other. In response, China warned that Lai’s remarks could lead to serious consequences for Taiwan.
