Camilla Jessen
Amid escalating tensions, China has openly declared its military exercises around Taiwan as a rehearsal for taking control over the self-governing island.
In a recent statement, a spokesperson for China’s People’s Liberation Army disclosed that their ongoing military exercises around Taiwan are a rehearsal for taking control of the self-governing island.
These maneuvers, set to last two days, are designed to test the military’s capability to “jointly take power, carry out joint attacks, and control key areas,” according to military spokesman Li Xi, as reported by state media on Friday.
Intensified Military Presence
The Taiwanese government has reported an unprecedented level of Chinese military activity in the vicinity of the island.
Over the past 24 hours, Taiwan’s Ministry of Defense tracked 49 Chinese aircraft near its borders—the highest number recorded in such a short period during these exercises. Of these, 35 aircraft crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait, entering Taiwan’s air defense identification zone.
The presence of 19 Chinese naval ships and seven coast guard vessels was also noted.
A Warning to Taiwan’s New Leadership
These military actions coincide with the recent inauguration of Taiwan’s new President, Lai Ching-te (William Lai), and seem to serve as a stern warning from Beijing.
The exercises included deployments of naval ships and military aircraft, coupled with stark threats of potential conflict.
Taiwan, which split from mainland China following the civil war 75 years ago, is viewed by Beijing as a breakaway province. China has consistently maintained that Taiwan should be reintegrated with the mainland, using military force if necessary, a stance that has strained relations between the two.