During a three-day military exercise, China conducted simulations of targeted strikes and “sealed off” Taiwan.
China conducted military exercises around Taiwan for three days, which included the simulation of targeted strikes and the “sealing off” of the island.
Taiwan reported detecting jets to its east, while China confirmed that its Shandong aircraft carrier had taken part. These drills followed Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen’s meeting with the US House Speaker in California.
Despite the exercises ending, Taiwan’s defense ministry stated that it would continue to strengthen its combat preparedness.
China views Taiwan as a breakaway province that will eventually be brought under its control, while Taiwan considers itself a sovereign state.
Analysts suggest that the fighter jets that were detected likely came from China’s Shandong aircraft carrier, which is currently deployed in the western Pacific ocean, about 320km (200 miles) from Taiwan.
The carrier conducted air operations, and its fighter planes carried out simulated strikes on important targets.
On the same day, the United States sent the USS Milius, a guided-missile destroyer, through part of the South China Sea approximately 1,300km (800 miles) south of Taiwan. China accused the US of “illegally intruding” into its waters, while the US maintained that the operation was consistent with international law. Prior to the drills, the US had called on China to exercise restraint after Taiwan’s President Tsai Ing-wen’s meeting with Kevin McCarthy, the third most senior US government figure. China warned the US and Taiwan of “resolute counter-measures” if the meeting took place.
The drills started after top foreign leaders hosted by China, including French President Emmanuel Macron and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, left the country. However, Mr Macron urged Europe not to become embroiled in a confrontation between Washington and Beijing over Taiwan, a statement that drew criticism.
Experts predict that these military exercises may have diminishing impact over time and that China will have to escalate them further to maintain the same level of fear.