HONG KONG (AP) - China's military has commenced extensive joint military drills around Taiwan, which Beijing claims serves as a "stern warning" against what it terms as "separatist and external interference forces." In response, Taiwan has raised its military alert level, labeling the Chinese government as "the biggest destroyer of peace." This escalation follows discontent from Beijing over recent U.S. arms sales to Taiwan, as well as remarks from Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi regarding potential military involvement should China take action against the self-governing island.
The drills are reported to have started in the Taiwan Strait, encompassing areas to the north, southwest, southeast, and east of Taiwan. Senior Colonel Shi Yi of China’s People’s Liberation Army Eastern Theater Command emphasized that these exercises aim at enhancing sea-air combat readiness, achieving "comprehensive superiority," and implementing blockades on key ports. It marks the first notable military exercise where the Chinese command publicly acknowledged intentions for "all-dimensional deterrence outside the island chain."
Shi further stated, "It is a stern warning against Taiwan independence separatist forces and external interference forces, and it is a legitimate and necessary action to safeguard China’s sovereignty and national unity." The drills incorporate various military assets, including fighters, bombers, and unmanned aerial vehicles, performing coordinated long-range rocket launches and emphasizing precision strike capabilities against mobile ground targets.
According to the Eastern Theater Command, major military maneuvers are also planned for the following day between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m., featuring live firing activities across five designated areas surrounding Taiwan. In association with the drills, the command released thematic posters that depicted military hardware alongside provocative slogans, showcasing their intent to counter perceived threats.
Recent actions from Beijing included sanctions on 20 U.S. defense-related companies and 10 corporation executives in retaliation for the U.S. Department of Defense's announcement of an arms package to Taiwan valued at more than $10 billion. If approved by the U.S. Congress, this would constitute one of the largest arms packages provided to Taiwan. U.S. federal law mandates assistance to Taiwan in defense matters, a contentious issue amid increasing tensions with China.
Taiwan's Defense Ministry reported that rapid response exercises were initiated in light of the Chinese drills, with their forces fully mobilized for island defense. "Our country strongly condemns the Chinese authorities for disregarding international norms and using military intimidation to threaten neighboring countries," stated Karen Kuo, spokesperson for the Taiwanese president’s office. The Taiwanese military emphasized they are on high alert and have executed combat readiness drills.
The political climate remains extremely tense, with Beijing frequently deploying warplanes and naval vessels toward Taiwan. Over recent years, these incursions have intensified, leading Taiwanese officials to announce plans to expedite the development of the "Taiwan Shield" or "T-Dome" air defense system in response to the perceived military threat from China.
Furthermore, Taipei's Mayor Chiang Wan-an expressed hopes for a peaceful association between the Taiwan Strait and prosperity, contrasting with the current atmosphere, characterized by military posturing and threats of aggression from Beijing.
