China deployed a record 125 aircraft and its Liaoning aircraft carrier in large-scale military exercises surrounding Taiwan on Monday, escalating tensions in the Taiwan Strait.
Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defense reported that 90 of the aircraft, including warplanes, helicopters, and drones, entered Taiwan’s air defense identification zone between 5:02 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. The drills simulated the sealing off of key ports around the island.
The exercises come in response to Taiwan’s National Day celebrations and a speech by Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te, who rejected Beijing’s claim of sovereignty over the self-governed island. China’s Taiwan Affairs Office called the drills “a resolute punishment” for Lai’s stance on Taiwan independence.
Chinese state broadcaster CCTV displayed a map showing six large blocks encircling Taiwan, indicating the locations of the military drills. The exercises involved China’s navy, army air force, and missile corps in an integrated operation.
Taiwan’s defense ministry reported deploying warships and mobile missile and radar groups to monitor the Chinese vessels. As of Monday morning, they had tracked 25 Chinese warplanes, seven warships, and four government ships.
Senior Captain Li Xi, spokesperson for China’s People’s Liberation Army Eastern Theater Command, stated that the drill was successfully completed and served as “a major warning to those who back Taiwan independence.”
The United States, Taiwan’s largest unofficial ally, called China’s response “unwarranted” and urged Beijing to exercise restraint.
Despite the tensions, residents in Taipei remained calm. “I don’t worry, I don’t panic either, it doesn’t have any impact on me,” said Chang Chia-rui, a local resident.
China also announced sanctions against two Taiwanese individuals, Puma Shen and Robert Tsao, for promoting Taiwanese independence. The sanctions prohibit them from traveling to China, including Hong Kong.
