China stages major military drills around Taiwan
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 […]
