Taiwan's Defense Ministry reported a significant increase in Chinese military activity around the island, with 35 Chinese planes and 7 ships detected within a 24-hour period. This surge follows the inauguration of President Lai Ching-te in Taipei, whom Beijing views as a 'dangerous separatist.'
China has consistently claimed Taiwan as part of its territory and has not ruled out the use of force to take control of the democratic island. The recent maneuvers included military ships and aircraft loaded with live ammunition, marking a 'severe punishment' against 'separatists,' according to Beijing.
During these exercises, the Chinese military sent up to 62 military aircraft around Taiwan in a single day, the highest level of activity recorded in 2024. The Taiwanese Defense Ministry responded by mobilizing its Air Force, Navy, and ground missile systems to monitor and address the situation.
Beijing has promised to continue military pressure on Taiwan 'as long as provocations linked to Taiwan’s independence continue.' In response, President Lai Ching-te asserted that China has 'no right to punish' the Taiwanese and criticized Beijing's recent inclusion of the death penalty in new criminal sanctions against suspected Taiwanese secessionists.
President Lai emphasized that relations between Taiwan and China will further deteriorate if Beijing does not recognize the existence of the Republic of China and engage in dialogue with Taiwan's democratically elected government.
- The high level of activity by the People's Liberation Army included 33 jets crossing the center line of the Taiwan Strait and entering Taiwan's air defense identification zone (Adiz) from multiple directions. This aggressive posture has heightened tensions in the region.
- Taiwan's Defense Ministry has been vigilant in monitoring these developments and has taken necessary actions to safeguard its airspace and territorial integrity. The mobilization of Taiwan's military forces underscores the island's preparedness to defend against potential threats.
- China's persistent military pressure is seen as a strategy to intimidate Taiwan and deter any moves towards formal independence. However, Taiwan remains resolute in maintaining its sovereignty and democratic values, despite the ongoing challenges posed by Beijing.
