CNN Central News & Network–ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Bhopal: Chinese Military Begins Largest-Ever Joint Drills Around Taiwan
On Tuesday, China’s military launched its largest-ever joint exercises around Taiwan, involving the army, navy, and rocket forces. This move is being seen as a stern warning against Taiwan’s independence. The announcement was made via the official WeChat account of the Eastern Theater Command of China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA). In recent days, Beijing has intensified its political and military pressure against the island, which it has long claimed as part of its territory.
According to CNBC News, Taiwan’s Ministry of Defense stated that China’s Shandong aircraft carrier group entered Taiwan’s air defense identification zone on Monday. In response, Taiwan deployed military aircraft and naval vessels and activated its land-based missile systems. The Ministry said, “The Chinese Communist Party has expanded its military activities in Taiwan and the Indo-Pacific region. Fortunately, the international community stands with us.”
Following the announcement of the joint drills, China released multiple videos showing its warships and fighter jets encircling Taiwan, simulating aerial strikes over Taipei, and patrolling military vehicles in urban areas. One of the videos, titled “Closing In,” was posted by the Eastern Theater Command. Another video, titled “Shell,” mocked Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te, depicting him as a green cartoon bug, calling him a parasite hollowing out the island.
Zhu Fenglian, spokesperson for China’s Taiwan Affairs Office, said the joint exercises are a “strong punishment” for President Lai Ching-te’s major pro-independence provocations. China also reiterated its commitment to unifying Taiwan with the mainland.
Historically, China’s military intimidation of Taiwan dates back to 1996, when Taiwan held its first direct presidential elections. Since then, Beijing has repeatedly declared restricted zones around the island. Though China and Taiwan were once part of what was called “One China”, Beijing has never succeeded in militarily taking Taiwan, having lost two decisive wars to the island.
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