According to an AFP report, the defense ministry identified 38 Chinese military aircraft and 11 navy or coast guard vessels around Taiwan within the last 24 hours.
This occurrence comes after a significant two-day military exercise conducted by Beijing a week ago.
It is important to note that China views Taiwan as part of its territory and has not excluded the use of force to bring it under Beijing’s governance.
Violation of the Median Line
Reports from the defense ministry indicate that 28 of the Chinese warplanes crossed the median line, which divides the Taiwan Strait and separates Taiwan from China. In response, Taiwan’s military dispatched aircraft and ships.
The timing of these incidents coincides with visits from United States congressional delegations, marking the first such visits since President Lai Ching-te was inaugurated on May 20, as reported by AFP.
Following President Lai’s inauguration, Chinese warships and fighter jets surrounded Taiwan in drills, which China defined as a demonstration of its capacity to seize the island. Throughout these exercises, China warned that “independence forces” would face severe consequences, as mentioned in the report.
Sustained Military Aggression
In recent times, Beijing has escalated military pressure on Taiwan, maintaining a near-daily presence of warplanes, drones, and naval vessels in proximity to the island. Analysts characterize these activities as “grey zone tactics,” with the intention of wearing down Taipei’s military strength without direct warfare.
Furthermore, China criticized Lai’s inaugural speech for promoting independence, accusing it of placing the people of Taiwan in a precarious situation of war and danger.
