Deepshikha Maan, Jadetimes Staff
D. Maan is a Jadetimes news reporter covering Asia
China Responds to Taiwan President’s Speech with Military Drills
China launched military drills off Taiwan’s coast on Monday in response to a speech by Taiwan’s President, William Lai, where he vowed to "resist annexation" and defend Taiwan's sovereignty.
China’s Claims and Military Mobilization
China considers Taiwan part of its territory and President Xi Jinping has declared that force could be used to bring the self-governing island under Chinese control. In response to Lai’s comments, Taiwan reported detecting 34 Chinese naval vessels and 125 aircraft surrounding the island. Chinese media published maps showing Chinese forces positioned around Taiwan, simulating attacks by land, sea, and air.
Taiwan's Response and Condemnation
Taiwan's defense ministry condemned the drills, focusing on avoiding direct confrontations that could escalate tensions further. Meanwhile, outlying islands were put on high alert. Despite the military exercises, Taiwan’s airports and ports continued normal operations.
China’s Justification for the Drills
China’s foreign ministry confirmed the drills were designed to simulate military assaults and blockades, stating that Taiwan’s pursuit of independence threatens peace in the region. The People’s Liberation Army (PLA) declared the exercise successful, with all branches participating.
U.S. Reaction and Historical Context
The U.S. criticized the drills, stating that Taiwan’s president had given a routine speech and that China’s actions were unjustified. Tensions between China and Taiwan have a history dating back to 1996, when Taiwan first held direct presidential elections. While relations eased between 2008 and 2016, they have intensified under Taiwan’s Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), which Beijing views as pro-independence.
Previous Chinese Military Drills
This latest exercise, titled "Joint Sword 2024 B," follows similar drills held earlier in the year. Those drills, timed with President Lai’s inauguration, were the largest of their kind, with Chinese military forces positioned in proximity to Taiwan.
Escalation of Military Activity
China has consistently ramped up its military intimidation of Taiwan since 2022, including regular incursions into Taiwanese airspace and waters. The most notable of these incidents occurred in 2022, following a visit to Taiwan by U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, which led China to fire ballistic missiles over the island.
China’s aggressive posturing reflects its continued resolve to challenge Taiwan's self governance and its growing military capability to pressure the island.
