Taiwan’s defense ministry reported Sunday that a Chinese navy group led by the aircraft carrier Liaoning was spotted sailing near the Bashi Channel, south of the island. This development comes as China’s military released a propaganda video stating it was “prepared for battle,” raising concerns in Taipei about possible new Chinese war games.
The Liaoning carrier group was observed entering waters near the channel connecting the South China Sea and the Pacific. Taiwan’s armed forces are maintaining close surveillance and “exercising appropriate vigilance and response,” according to the defense ministry.
Tensions have escalated following Taiwan President Lai Ching-te’s recent national day speech, where he asserted that China had no right to represent Taiwan but expressed willingness to cooperate on global challenges. China, which views Taiwan as its territory, denounced Lai’s remarks as “separatist.”
China’s People’s Liberation Army Eastern Theatre Command released a video titled “fully prepared and biding ones time before battle,” showcasing military operations and including a map of Taiwan. This has fueled speculation about potential new war games, reminiscent of those held in May following Lai’s inauguration.
Taiwan security officials, speaking anonymously, indicated they are monitoring the situation closely, including Chinese media reactions to Lai’s speech. Some Chinese social media comments on the military video called for “Taiwan to return to the motherland” and “national reunification.”
As both sides maintain their positions – with China not ruling out force to bring Taiwan under its control and Taiwan rejecting Beijing’s sovereignty claims – the situation remains tense. Taiwan has offered talks, but Beijing has rebuffed these attempts.
