China has launched military drills Taiwan’s north, south, and east coasts. It calls this a “stern warning” against those supporting Taiwan’s independence. At the same time, China criticized Taiwan’s President, Lai Ching-te, calling him a “parasite.”
Taiwan Responds with Military Actions
Taiwan responded by sending its own warships after Chinese naval forces moved closer to its shores. These drills follow recent harsh comments from China about President Lai. They also come just after U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth visited Asia, where he criticized China’s actions.
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China’s Military Operations and Objectives
China’s military said its forces were practicing blockades, ground strikes, and air interceptions. These exercises tested their ability to coordinate in combat situations. Unlike last year’s military drills, this time, China has not given the operation a formal name.
China’s View on Taiwan and Its Leadership
China considers Taiwan part of its own territory and sees President Lai as a “separatist.” A video released by China’s military depicted him as a green bug being burned over Taiwan. China insists that Taiwan will eventually be reunited with the mainland.
Taiwan Calls China a ‘Troublemaker’
Taiwan’s government strongly opposed China’s drills. Officials stated that China is widely seen as a “troublemaker” by the international community. Taiwan’s leaders reaffirmed that only its people have the right to decide their future, rejecting Beijing’s sovereignty claims.
Chinese Ships and Aircraft Near Taiwan
Taiwanese military officials reported that over 10 Chinese military ships moved close to Taiwan’s 24-nautical-mile (44 km) boundary. In response, Taiwan deployed its own warships. Taiwan’s Defense Ministry confirmed that at least 71 Chinese military aircraft and 13 navy ships were involved in the operation but noted that no live fire had been detected.
Taiwan’s Military on High Alert
Taiwan’s defense spokesperson Sun Li-fang said that their forces are on high alert to prevent China from turning these drills into an actual attack. He assured that Taiwan is prepared to defend itself against any sudden military action from China.
China Defends Its Military Exercises
China’s foreign ministry defended the drills, calling them “necessary actions to protect national sovereignty and unity.” A Chinese government spokesperson emphasized that Taiwan’s reunification with China is inevitable.
Taiwan’s Stock Market Remains Unaffected
Despite rising tensions, Taiwan’s stock market did not react negatively. The benchmark stock index closed with a 2.8% gain on Tuesday, showing investor confidence despite the ongoing military drills.
U.S. Pledges Support for Taiwan
The U.S. has expressed its concern over China’s actions. The American Institute in Taiwan, which acts as the U.S.’s unofficial embassy, stated that the U.S. will continue to support Taiwan. White House spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt reaffirmed that the U.S. is committed to peace in the Taiwan Strait and opposes any attempt to change the status quo through force.
China’s Propaganda and Military Messaging
China’s military released several videos showing its warships and fighter jets surrounding Taiwan. One video, titled “Closing In,” depicted Chinese forces encircling the island. Another animation portrayed President Lai as a bug spreading parasites across Taiwan, suggesting that he is harming the island.
Taiwan Criticizes China’s Aggressive Messaging
Taiwan’s Defense Minister Wellington Koo criticized China’s propaganda, saying it does not promote peace and stability. He also pointed out that China’s military should focus on fixing corruption within its ranks instead of provoking regional conflicts.
China’s Military Strategy Becoming Routine
Chinese state media suggested that the lack of an official code name for the drills was intentional. A military expert quoted in the Global Times said that these exercises have now become a “normal practice.” He added that China’s military has improved its readiness for future battles through these repeated exercises.
China’s recent actions indicate a continued push to assert dominance over Taiwan, while Taiwan remains firm in defending its independence. The situation remains tense, with growing international attention on how it will develop next.
