China has launched large-scale military drills around Taiwan, simulating the seizure and blockade of key areas of the self-ruled island, in what Beijing described as a warning to “separatist forces.”
The exercises, codenamed “Justice Mission 2025,” involve China’s army, navy, air force and rocket force, and include live-fire components, according to the Chinese military. The drills come just days after the United States announced one of its largest-ever weapons sales to Taiwan, valued at about $11 billion, a move that drew sharp protests from Beijing and prompted sanctions against US defence firms.
Taiwan’s presidential office condemned the drills, saying they challenge international norms and further destabilise the region. The island’s defence ministry said it detected Chinese aircraft and naval vessels operating around Taiwan on Monday morning and has deployed its own forces and missile systems to monitor the situation. The ministry added that Taiwan’s military is on “high alert” to defend the island and protect its people.
China’s Eastern Theater Command, which oversees operations in the Taiwan Strait, said the exercises were designed to test joint combat capabilities and demonstrate the military’s ability to control strategic zones. In a post on social media platform Weibo, the command described the drills as a “shield of justice,” warning that those seeking independence would face severe consequences.
While some activities have already begun, Chinese officials said a major phase of the drills would take place from 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. local time on Tuesday.
Beijing has long insisted on the “peaceful reunification” of Taiwan with the mainland but maintains a law allowing the use of force if it deems the island to be moving toward formal independence. Chinese authorities have accused Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te of pursuing independence, an allegation he rejects, arguing that Taiwan is already a sovereign entity and does not need to declare independence.
Speaking in a television interview on Sunday, Lai said Taiwan must continue strengthening its defences to raise the cost of any potential invasion, while maintaining the status quo and avoiding provocation. He stressed that lasting peace depends on credible deterrence.
Public opinion polls consistently show that most Taiwanese favour maintaining the status quo rather than unification with China or a formal declaration of independence.
China has significantly increased military activity around Taiwan since 2022, often in response to events it views as provocative, such as high-profile visits by US officials or political developments in Taipei. Its last live-fire drills in the Taiwan Strait, held in April, simulated strikes on ports and energy infrastructure.
This week’s exercises are the first under Yang Zhibin, who became commander of the Eastern Theater Command in October. Taiwan, for its part, continues to conduct its own large-scale military drills, including this year’s extended Han Kuang exercises, as it boosts defence spending and prepares for growing tensions across the strait.
Melissa Enoch
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