Devendra Kumar
The People’s Liberation Army (PLA) of China has launched military drills around Taiwan, citing the island’s “collusion” with foreign forces as a reason. The drills, which involved the coordination of vessels and planes, were designed to test the PLA’s “actual combat capabilities” and demonstrate its ability to seize control of air and sea spaces. The Chinese government has long claimed Taiwan as its own territory and has been critical of the island’s efforts to conduct foreign relations and maintain its own military forces.
According to Chinese state media, the drills started on Saturday morning and included the launch of missile-equipped boats and fighter jets. Taiwan’s defense ministry reported that it detected 42 Chinese military aircraft crossing the Taiwan Strait, an unofficial boundary considered a buffer between the island and the mainland. The Chinese army also deployed eight vessels to participate in the joint combat patrol.
Taiwan responded to the drills by deploying its own aircraft and vessels and activating land-based missile systems. The island’s defense ministry strongly condemned China’s “irrational, provocative moves” and vowed to stand ready in the face of what it called the Chinese army’s “threats.” The ministry also emphasized Taiwan’s ability to defend itself, stating that its military has the “ability, determination, and confidence” to safeguard national security.
China’s actions are seen as a response to Taiwan’s vice president, William Lai, who stopped over in the United States on his way back from Paraguay. The trip was seen as a sign of Taiwan’s growing ties with the US and has likely added to tensions between China and Taiwan. China has also been critical of Taiwan’s desire to maintain its own foreign relations and has accused the island of colluding with foreign forces in an attempt to break away from China.
The situation is a reminder of the ongoing tensions between China and Taiwan, as well as the island’s desire for greater international recognition and autonomy. The US has been a key supporter of Taiwan and has increased its military aid to the island in recent years. However, China has repeatedly warned the US against sending troops to Taiwan, saying it would be a significant escalation of tensions.
The PLA’s drills around Taiwan come as the island prepares for its presidential election in January, in which William Lai is the candidate for the Democratic Progressive Party. The election is seen as a key test of Taiwan’s commitment to democracy and its ability to resist Chinese pressure. In the meantime, tensions between China and Taiwan are likely to remain high, and the situation could escalate further if China decides to take more drastic measures to assert its control over the island.