China’s military has commenced a new series of war games in close proximity to Taiwan, which it has labeled a warning against the “separatist acts of Taiwan independence forces.” The maneuvers have elicited strong condemnation from both the Taiwanese government and U.S. officials, further escalating tensions in the region.
Taiwan, a democratically governed territory that China considers part of its own, had been bracing for increased military activity following President Lai Ching-te’s national day speech last week. In his address, President Lai asserted that China had no authority to represent Taiwan, even while expressing a willingness to cooperate with the mainland. This prompted a stern reaction from Beijing.
The Chinese military’s Eastern Theatre Command reported that the “Joint Sword-2024B” drills are taking place in the Taiwan Strait and surrounding areas. In a statement issued in both Chinese and English, the command emphasized that the exercises serve as a “legitimate and necessary operation for safeguarding state sovereignty and national unity.” However, it did not specify the duration of the drills.
A map released by the command outlined nine designated areas around Taiwan where the exercises are being conducted, including sites along both the east and west coasts and near Taiwan-controlled islands adjacent to the Chinese coastline. The command reported that Chinese ships and aircraft are approaching Taiwan from multiple directions, focusing on sea-air combat readiness, blockade operations, and targeting maritime and ground installations. No live-fire exercises or no-fly zones were announced, however.
In 2022, following a visit to Taiwan by then-U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, China launched missiles over the island in a show of force. Recently, China’s coast guard has also increased its patrols near Taiwan’s offshore islands, as reported by state media.
Taiwan’s Mainland Affairs Council condemned the latest drills as “blatant provocations” that threaten regional peace and stability. In a statement, the council reiterated Taiwan’s determination not to yield to political, military, or economic threats from China. It also noted President Lai’s willingness to collaborate with China to maintain peace in the Taiwan Strait.
Joseph Wu, secretary-general of Taiwan’s National Security Council, affirmed Taiwan’s commitment to maintaining the status quo across the Taiwan Strait while remaining vigilant. He emphasized the importance of global dialogue regarding peace and stability in the region.
In the United States, an official from the Biden administration stated that the U.S. is closely monitoring the drills and sees no justification for them following President Lai’s “routine” speech. The official urged China to refrain from actions that could further jeopardize peace in the Taiwan Strait and the broader region.
Reports indicate that China may be simulating blockades of Taiwanese ports and international shipping lanes. Furthermore, Taiwanese defense officials have noted the movement of a Chinese aircraft carrier group near the island.
Chinese state media has reacted aggressively to President Lai’s remarks, with the People’s Liberation Army Daily warning that “those who play with fire get burned.” The publication emphasized that China’s military response to any “Taiwan independence” provocations would continue unabated.
The ongoing military exercises come on the heels of China’s “Joint Sword-2024A” drills, held in May shortly after President Lai took office, which Beijing described as punishment for perceived separatist rhetoric. Despite Lai’s repeated overtures for dialogue with China, these offers have consistently been met with rejection, as he insists that only the people of Taiwan can determine their future.
