China has announced it will hold military drills around Taiwan simulating the seizure and blockade of the island's key areas, as a warning against separatist forces.
The army, navy, air force and rocket force would be dispatched for the drills scheduled for Tuesday, which include live-fire exercises, according to the Chinese military.
Codenamed Justice Mission 2025, the drills come shortly after the U.S. announced a substantial weapons package to Taiwan valued at $11 billion, which has provoked sharp criticism and sanctions from Beijing.
The escalation in military activity from China is in direct response to Taiwan's increased defense efforts, which have angered Beijing, asserting its claim over the self-ruled island.
Taiwan's presidential office has criticized the upcoming Chinese drills as a challenge to international norms, and the island's defense ministry has reported increased Chinese military presence in the region.
In a statement, Taiwan's defense forces expressed preparedness and vigilance, stating, Our forces are on high alert to defend Taiwan and protect our people. The Chinese military, meanwhile, referred to the exercises as a shield of justice and warned against any independence movements.
The tensions have been aggravated by Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te's stance on maintaining the island's sovereignty and independence while also calling for enhanced defense measures. Recent polls show the Taiwanese population favors maintaining the status quo, neither seeking unification with China nor independence.
China's recent military activities in the Taiwan Strait have included various live-fire drills, often viewed as retaliation for perceived provocations from U.S. and Taiwanese leaders. The latest drills underline the ongoing friction and the complex security landscape in the region.
