Taiwan reports four Chinese ships breached ‘prohibited’ waters

Four Chinese coastguard ships briefly sailed through Taiwan’s “prohibited” waters, sparking tensions between Taipei and Beijing. The incident occurred south of Taiwan’s outlying island of Kinmen, just five kilometers from the Chinese city of Xiamen.

Taiwan’s coastguard reported that the Chinese ships entered the restricted waters around 3:30 pm on Monday and left about an hour later. Taipei condemned Beijing’s actions, urging them to cease behavior that jeopardizes navigation safety.

This provocative move comes as Taiwan prepares for the inauguration of new president Lai Ching-te on May 20. Lai, like outgoing President Tsai Ing-wen, rejects China’s claim on Taiwan, further fueling tensions between the two governments.

In response to the incident, Taiwan’s defense ministry announced plans to enhance support to the coastguard through increased surveillance and reconnaissance efforts. Despite the heightened tensions, officials reassured the public that they are well-prepared to ensure regional security.

With Beijing vowing to step up patrols around Kinmen following recent fishing accidents involving Chinese vessels, Taiwanese authorities remain on high alert for potential military exercises by China after the presidential inauguration.

The situation remains tense as both sides navigate the delicate balance of power in the region, with Taiwan asserting its sovereignty while China continues to assert its territorial claims.