Taiwan Condemns Chinese Military Drills as ‘Unreasonable Provocation
Taiwan has condemned China’s recent military drills around the self-governing island, labeling them an “unreasonable provocation.” The drills involve the deployment of Chinese warships and fighter jets, which Beijing describes as a “stern warning” against what it perceives as separatist actions by Taiwan’s independence advocates.
In response, Taiwan’s Defense Ministry has condemned the exercises and stated that it has mobilized its own forces.
Furthermore, the presidential office has urged China to halt military provocations that threaten regional peace and stability, while President Lai reassured citizens of the government’s commitment to defending Taiwan’s democracy and national security. The Chinese military’s Eastern Theater Command announced that these exercises, which include joint operations of the army, navy, air force, and rocket force, are taking place in the Taiwan Strait and around the island.
China’s military activities near Taiwan have intensified in recent years, often coinciding with events that provoke Beijing’s ire. For instance, after U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s visit to Taiwan in August 2022, China launched a week of military drills. More recently, similar exercises were conducted following the inauguration of Taiwan President Lai Ching-te, who has been characterized by Beijing as a “dangerous separatist.” The current drills, dubbed Joint Sword-2024B, are viewed as a continuation of the previous exercises.
In the lead-up to the drills, the Eastern Theater Command released a propaganda video titled “prepared for battle,” showcasing military assets such as fighter jets, warships, and mobile missile launchers. The video emphasized that the command is “prepared for battle at all times” and can engage in combat whenever necessary. This display of military readiness highlights China’s escalating military posture in the region.
In response, Taiwan’s Defense Ministry has condemned the exercises and stated that it has mobilized its own forces. The presidential office has urged China to halt military provocations that threaten regional peace and stability, while President Lai reassured citizens of the government’s commitment to defending Taiwan’s democracy and national security. Additionally, Taiwan’s Defense Ministry reported that the Chinese aircraft carrier Liaoning was conducting drills near the strategic Bashi Channel, further escalating tensions in the region.
