In a highly provocative move, over 40 Chinese warplanes conducted extensive drills over Taiwan’s air defense zone on Saturday, with around 26 aircraft even crossing the median line of the Taiwan Strait. This display of military might has been labeled as “irrational and provocative” by Taiwan’s defense ministry. The move is believed to be an attempt by Beijing to exert influence on Taiwan’s upcoming elections.
China has defended the drills as an exercise to test its forces’ combat readiness in “combat conditions.” The People’s Liberation Army’s spokesperson, Shi Yi, noted that joint air and sea patrols and military exercises of the navy and air force were conducted around Taiwan. Shi Yi emphasized that the exercises were a stern warning to prevent collaboration between “Taiwan independence” supporters and foreign actors.
China’s actions are partly in response to Taiwan’s Vice President William Lai’s recent visit to the United States. Lai is a frontrunner in Taiwan’s upcoming presidential election in January. China has labeled him a “troublemaker” and vowed to safeguard national sovereignty.
Despite China’s claim over Taiwan’s territory, the island is self-governed. Taiwan has condemned China’s military exercises as reckless and provocative, while stating that it will respond with appropriate forces. Taiwan’s defense ministry criticized the exercise as demonstrating China’s militaristic mentality and its expansionist military nature.
Taiwan’s foreign minister, Joseph Wu, asserted that China’s drills aim to influence Taiwan’s elections. He stressed that the decision on Taiwan’s future rests with its citizens, not external pressures.
While the massive military drills have raised tensions, residents in Taiwan remain relatively unfazed. Some see the exercises as a show of strength, while others believe the possibility of a real attack is remote. The United States’ involvement in the region also acts as a deterrent against any large-scale military aggression.
SOURCE: Ref Image from DW
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