China has initiated extensive military exercises surrounding Taiwan, labeling its leaders as “separatists” and “parasites” who are steering the democratic govern island towards conflict. The drills, initiated without warning on Tuesday morning and accompanied by a propaganda effort, were deemed by China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA) as a “stern warning” to Taiwan’s government over what Beijing labels as secessionist maneuvering. Forces from the PLA Navy, Army, and Rocket Force were maneuvering towards Taiwan from various directions, hinting at combat readiness patrols at sea and in the air, comprehensive control, and the blocking of key areas and routes, according to the Eastern Theatre Command.
Taiwan’s defense ministry reported detecting 19 PLA ships around Taiwan by 6 AM on Tuesday, including the Chinese aircraft carrier Shandong, with over a dozen ships approaching close to Taiwan’s contiguous zone, which extends 24 nautical miles (44 km) from the coast. Taiwan’s military responded by deploying aircraft, Navy ships, and coastal missile systems.
Beijing asserts that Taiwan is part of its territory and is intensifying its capabilities to potentially reclaim it through military might. Although analysts suggest China is not yet ready for such an operation, it is advancing and using military pressure, such as these drills and other coercive measures, to push Taiwan towards acquiescence.
“Taiwan independence” equates to war, and striving for “Taiwan independence” puts the Taiwanese people in a perilous war situation, as claimed by Zhu Fenglian, spokesperson for Beijing’s Taiwan Affairs Office. Tuesday’s drills diverged from previous exercises, which didn’t have explicit repercussions for Taiwan. This military activity was announced with minimal notice, escalating concerns that Beijing might launch a genuine attack or blockade under the guise of a drill. However, these concerns are not without precedent, as China has consistently used military drills in response to perceived acts of secession or pro-independence stances by Taiwan.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/apr/01/china-launches-surprise-military-drills-around-taiwan
