China has issued a stark warning of potential war over Taiwan, pledging to escalate countermeasures until what it terms “complete reunification” is achieved. This warning came as Chinese military forces conducted extensive drills around the self-governing island, surrounded by warships and fighter jets.
The military exercises, spanning two days, were initiated shortly after Lai Ching-te assumed office as Taiwan’s new president. China swiftly denounced Lai’s inauguration speech as a declaration of independence, sparking heightened tensions in the region.
Chinese defense ministry spokesman Wu Qian accused Lai of challenging the “one-China principle,” which Beijing considers non-negotiable. Wu asserted that any move towards Taiwanese independence would push the situation towards war, prompting China to intensify its efforts towards reunification.
These drills mark an escalation in China’s ongoing campaign to intimidate Taiwan, which has seen a series of large-scale military exercises in recent years. They aim to test China’s ability to seize control of the island through joint military operations, including naval maneuvers and simulated strikes against strategic targets.
As per the reports received, the number of Chinese military aircraft detected around Taiwan reached a peak during the exercises, while numerous naval and coast guard ships patrolled the surrounding waters.
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The longstanding dispute over Taiwan’s sovereignty has kept the Taiwan Strait on edge for decades, with fears mounting that China may resort to military force to assert control over the island.
The United States, Taiwan’s staunch ally and main military supporter, has urged China to exercise restraint, while the United Nations has called for de-escalation from all parties involved.
As the military drills, codenamed “Joint Sword-2024A,” unfolded, China emphasized their punitive nature towards what it terms “Taiwan independence forces.” Footage released by China’s military showcased soldiers preparing for battle and jets taking off amidst martial music.
Chinese propaganda accompanying the exercises included warnings to Taiwan against resisting reunification by force, coupled with graphics depicting missile strikes targeting key locations on the island.
Responding to Lai’s inauguration speech, which hailed Taiwan’s democracy, Chinese authorities branded him a “dangerous separatist” and warned of dire consequences for any attempts at independence.
The military exercises, spanning areas around the Taiwan Strait and adjacent islands, are expected to continue until Friday. However, analysts caution that China may extend the drills or even launch missile tests near Taiwan, reminiscent of past escalations triggered by diplomatic events.
Despite these tensions, Taiwan remains resolute in its defense, with reports of Chinese vessels entering restricted waters near Taiwanese islands prompting heightened vigilance from Taipei’s defense forces.
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