The Chinese military began exercises around Taiwan today, Saturday, stating that they represent a "serious warning" to separatist forces, in a widely anticipated angry response to the visit of Taiwan's Vice President William Lai to the United States. China's Xinhua News Agency reported that "China has conducted maritime and aerial patrols for combat readiness around Taiwan today." Colonel Shi Yi, a spokesperson for the Eastern Theater Command of the People's Liberation Army, said, "The Eastern Theater has conducted patrols focused on coordination and testing the combat capabilities of its forces in joint operations as a serious warning to the separatist forces for Taiwan independence."
In response, Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense strongly condemned the Chinese military exercises near the island, stating that it "will deploy appropriate forces to respond and has the ability, determination, and confidence to maintain national security." In a statement, it noted that "the commencement of military exercises at this time does not contribute to peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait but also highlights China's military mindset." It reported that starting from Saturday morning, 42 Chinese aircraft and eight ships were participating in drills around the island. It clarified that "a total of 26 Chinese aircraft crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait, which had previously served as an unofficial barrier, or crossed over its 'extended line'."
The ruling Democratic Progressive Party in Taiwan views "the Chinese military maneuvers not only as an attempt to pressure the island but also aimed at influencing the elections scheduled to take place in Taiwan in January." Additionally, the Presidential Office in Taiwan confirmed that "the military and national security team on the island is fully aware of China's military activities." It emphasized that "China is neglecting its international responsibilities with its threats."
