China Conducts Military Drills Around Taiwan: A Show of Force
China has initiated military exercises around Taiwan, termed Joint Sword-2024B, which involve aircraft and naval vessels encircling the self-governing island. According to the Ministry of Defense, these drills aim to test the joint operational capabilities of the People's Liberation Army (PLA) across various branches, including the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Rocket Force. The exercises are seen as a stern warning to Taiwan's independence movement, especially following a provocative speech by Taiwan's President William Lai on the anniversary of the Republic of China's founding.
Taiwan's Ministry of Defense has condemned these actions, describing them as
