China launched large-scale military exercises around Taiwan on Monday, deploying a record 125 aircraft, warships, and its Liaoning aircraft carrier, in a move described as a warning to Taiwan and a response to President William Lai’s recent speech rejecting Beijing’s claims of sovereignty. The drills simulated blockades of key ports, highlighting tensions in the Taiwan Strait just days after Taiwan’s National Day celebrations.
Taiwan’s Ministry of Defense confirmed that 34 Chinese naval vessels and 125 aircraft, including warplanes, helicopters, and drones, operated around the island. The ministry condemned the exercises as “irrational and provocative” and emphasized its forces were monitoring the situation closely, while Taiwan’s airports and ports remained functional.
The drills, dubbed “Joint Sword-2024B,” focused on simulating attacks by land, sea, and air. Chinese state media released maps showing military formations encircling Taiwan and its outlying islands. The exercises followed a speech by President Lai in which he vowed to “resist annexation” and uphold Taiwan’s sovereignty.
China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA) said the drills were necessary to protect national unity and warned against Taiwan’s independence efforts. The PLA’s Eastern Theater Command described the operations as successful but did not provide a date for their conclusion.
The United States criticized China’s military response, calling it an overreaction to a routine speech. Washington urged Beijing to show restraint and avoid further actions that could destabilize the region.
Despite the military pressure, Taiwan’s government and public remained defiant, with officials reaffirming their commitment to defending the island’s sovereignty and stability.
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