TAIPEI — Taiwan’s defense ministry reported spotting 35 Chinese military aircraft, including fighter jets and bombers, flying south of the island and toward the Pacific for exercises. This marked the second day in a row of such activity as tensions rise.
China claims Taiwan as part of its territory and regularly sends military planes and ships near the island, asserting its sovereignty, though Taiwan firmly opposes these actions. Just days before the U.S. presidential election, China’s defense ministry has not commented on these missions.
The U.S. supports Taiwan’s defense and recently sold the island a $2-billion missile system, which angered China. Taiwan’s defense ministry said that by 9 a.m. on Sunday, 37 Chinese aircraft, including powerful J-16 fighters and nuclear-capable H-6 bombers, were detected. Of these, 35 flew to the island’s southwest and southeast, conducting long-range exercises in the Western Pacific. Taiwan has sent its own forces to monitor the situation.
On Saturday, China also conducted a “combat readiness patrol” around Taiwan with both warships and aircraft. Last month, China held large military drills around the island, warning against “separatist acts,” which drew criticism from Taiwan and the U.S.
China has voiced disapproval of Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te, calling him a “separatist.” However, Lai insists Taiwan’s future is for its people to decide and has expressed willingness to talk with Beijing, though China has declined.
