Taiwan reported a concerning development in its ongoing tensions with China. On Saturday, twelve Chinese military aircraft crossed the sensitive median line of the Taiwan Strait. This occurred just after U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken concluded his visit to China.
The United States has long been a key supporter of Taiwan, despite not having formal diplomatic relations. Blinken emphasized the importance of maintaining peace and stability in the region during his visit.
China sees Taiwan as its own territory, but Taiwan, which is governed democratically, rejects this claim. The recent military activity underscores the increased pressure Taiwan has been facing from China.
Taiwan’s defense ministry detected a total of 22 Chinese military aircraft, including Su-30 fighters. Twelve of these aircraft crossed the median line towards Taiwan’s north and center. This line, although unofficial, was previously respected as a boundary neither side’s military would cross. However, China now regularly sends its aircraft over it, stating that it does not recognize the line’s existence.
The Taiwanese defense ministry reported that the Chinese aircraft were conducting “joint combat readiness patrols” with Chinese warships. Responding, Taiwanese aircraft and ships reacted “appropriately,” although specific details were not provided. China’s defense ministry did not respond to inquiries about the incident.
While Taiwan’s armed forces are well-equipped and trained, they are significantly smaller than China’s military, particularly in terms of navy and air force capabilities.
China regards Taiwan as a crucial issue in its relationship with the United States and has repeatedly called for an end to U.S. weapons sales to Taiwan.
The situation is further complicated by the upcoming inauguration of Taiwan’s President-elect Lai Ching-te on May 20. Lai, who won January’s election, is seen by Beijing as a separatist threat. Despite this, Lai has expressed a desire for dialogue with China, stressing that Taiwan’s future should be determined by its people, a sentiment echoed by outgoing President Tsai Ing-wen.
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