China conducts two-day military exercises around Taiwan in show of force | Military News

China has initiated two days of military exercises in the waters and airspace surrounding Taiwan, as reported by Chinese state media. The drills, named Joint Sword-2024A, involve the army, navy, air force, and rocket force and are a response to what China perceives as separatist acts by Taiwan’s new president, William Lai Ching-te.

Lai, who took office just three days ago, has called on Beijing to cease its intimidation tactics towards Taiwan, a self-governing island that China claims as its own. In his inaugural address, Lai emphasized Taiwan’s sovereignty and independence, urging Beijing to respect the region’s peace and stability.

China’s military spokesman, Colonel Li Xi, stated that the exercises are a strong punishment for Taiwan’s independence forces and a warning against external interference. The drills cover various areas around Taiwan, including the Taiwan Strait and neighboring islands.

In response, Taiwan’s ministry of defense has placed its military on high alert, denouncing China’s actions as irrational provocations that disrupt regional peace. Bonnie Glaser, an expert on the region, predicts that Beijing will continue to escalate its measures against Taiwan in the coming months.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi condemned Lai’s presidency, vowing to achieve reunification with Taiwan and labeling separatists as shameful figures in history. The Global Times, a state-run publication, criticized Lai’s speech as hostile and deceptive, reflecting China’s growing displeasure with Taiwan’s leadership.

Experts warn that China’s military drills are just the beginning of potential future actions aimed at Taiwan. The ongoing tensions highlight the longstanding conflict between Beijing and Taipei over Taiwan’s political status and sovereignty.