China has launched large-scale military exercises around Taiwan, simulating the seizure and blockade of key areas of the island, in what it says is a warning to “separatist forces”.
According to the Chinese military, the drills involve the army, navy, air force and rocket force, and include live-fire exercises. The operation, code-named Justice Mission 2025, comes just days after the United States approved one of its largest-ever arms sales to Taiwan, valued at about $11bn. Beijing strongly condemned the deal and responded by sanctioning several US defence companies.
China’s leadership has also criticised Taiwan’s efforts to strengthen its defence capabilities this year. Beijing claims Taiwan as part of its territory, despite the island being self-ruled for decades.
Taiwan’s presidential office denounced the drills, saying they undermine regional stability and international norms. The defence ministry reported detecting Chinese aircraft and naval vessels operating near the island early Monday and said Taiwanese forces had been deployed to monitor the situation. It added that the military remains on high alert to safeguard national security and protect civilians.
China’s Eastern Theater Command, which oversees operations in the Taiwan Strait, described the exercises on social media as a “shield of justice”, warning that those pursuing independence would face severe consequences. While some activities have already begun, Chinese officials said the main phase of the drills would run from Tuesday morning to evening.
Beijing continues to say it prefers “peaceful reunification” with Taiwan, but Chinese law allows the use of force to prevent what it calls secession. Chinese authorities have repeatedly accused Taiwan’s president, Lai Ching-te, of promoting independence. Lai, however, maintains that Taiwan is already a sovereign state and has no need to formally declare independence.
In a recent interview, Lai said Taiwan must continue to strengthen its defences to deter any potential invasion, while stressing that his administration seeks to maintain the current situation and avoid provoking China. Public opinion polls consistently show that most people in Taiwan favour preserving the status quo rather than unification or formal independence.
China has significantly increased military pressure around Taiwan since 2022, often staging exercises in response to political developments it sees as hostile. The current drills are the first conducted under the new commander of the Eastern Theater Command, who took office in October.
Taiwan also carries out its own military exercises to prepare for potential conflict and demonstrate its readiness. This year’s Han Kuang drills were the largest and longest in the island’s history, reflecting growing concern over regional security.
The latest Chinese exercises are also intended to send a warning beyond Taiwan. Tensions between China and Japan have risen sharply after remarks by a senior Japanese leader suggested Tokyo could intervene if Taiwan were attacked. This has led to diplomatic protests, travel warnings and recent incidents involving military aircraft from both sides.
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