China once again has a large-scale military exercise Taiwan started. The maneuvers should be understood as a “serious warning” against separatist and “outside interfering” forces Taiwan Wanted to promote independence, said a statement from the Chinese military’s Eastern Command. It is a legitimate and necessary action to protect China’s sovereignty and national unity.
Live ammunition is also used. According to the information, the target is “maritime destinations in the north and southwest of Taiwan”. The army uses destroyers, frigates, fighters, bombs and drones. The plan is for ships to “approach the island of Taiwan from various directions in the immediate vicinity,” said military spokesman Shi Yi.
In a separate statement, the Chinese People’s Liberation Army announced it would hold shooting exercises in five designated zones around Taiwan starting Tuesday. The army also released a map marking five major areas where live-fire exercises would take place.
Taiwan condemns Chinese maneuvers
Taiwan reported four Chinese coast guard boats off its north and east coasts. The island’s army said it “immediately sent larger ships” and support units to the affected areas.
At the same time, Taiwan’s government condemned the new military exercises. China’s The actions undermine security and stability in the region and represent an open challenge to international law and order, said a spokeswoman for the presidential office.
Japan and the US had angered China’s leadership
China repeatedly carries out maneuvers around Taiwan. However, it is the first time that China has publicly stated that the exercise is also aimed at “deterring” foreign military interference. China last carried out live-fire exercises off Taiwan in April. However, the Chinese army exercises almost daily in the region with warships and military aircraft.
The new maneuver follows tensions with the US and Japan. The Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi criticized the Chinese government in Novemberwhen she said a possible attack by China on Taiwan could trigger a military response from Japan. A short time later the USA had new ones Arms shipments to Taiwan worth $11.1 billion announced. The planned US arms deal is expected to include medium-range missiles, howitzers and drones. If approved by the U.S. Congress, it would be the largest arms package ever sold by the United States to Taiwan.
China counts the island republic as part of its territory, although Taiwan has had a democratically elected government independent of China for decades. The People’s Republic wants to annex Taiwan and is threatening to use the military if this does not happen peacefully.
