Post by : Meena Ariff

US President Donald Trump expressed calm over China's recent military exercises surrounding Taiwan, dismissing concerns about the drills as routine. Speaking to reporters, Trump emphasized his strong relationship with Chinese President Xi Jinping and said Xi had not mentioned the exercises to him. He noted that China has conducted naval drills in the region for over 20 years, indicating no cause for alarm.

China launched a two-day series of military war games near Taiwan shortly after the US announced one of its largest arms sales to the island. These drills simulate a blockade and seizure of key Taiwanese territories and are framed by Beijing as a warning against Taiwan's push for independence and foreign interference.

The Chinese military detailed its plan to conduct 10 hours of live-fire exercises across five sea and air zones around Taiwan. The Eastern Theater Command has deployed a fleet including destroyers, frigates, and fighter-bombers to test coordinated maritime and aerial operations.

Taiwan’s defense ministry reported the presence of 130 Chinese military aircraft around the island, with 90 crossing the unofficial median line separating China and Taiwan’s airspace—a boundary China does not recognize. Over a dozen Chinese naval vessels were also spotted near Taiwan. Taiwan has responded by deploying aircraft, naval ships, and missile systems to monitor and counter the maneuvers.

Taiwan’s presidential office condemned the drills, labeling them a breach of international norms. President Lai Ching-te stated that escalating military pressure is irresponsible and assured that Taiwan would act prudently, avoiding conflict while safeguarding national security.

Experts suggest that the primary message of these exercises is directed at the United States, Japan, and former President Trump, signaling Beijing’s frustration over the US arms sales to Taiwan. These sales now include offensive weapons capable of striking the Chinese mainland, escalating tensions.

Some analysts also note concerns within the US that Trump’s approach to Taiwan might be more transactional, potentially weakening American commitment in exchange for economic gains.

While Trump downplays the drills as routine, experts argue that the modernization of China’s military and increased activity around Taiwan signal a more assertive stance. They caution that personal ties between Trump and Xi Jinping are unlikely to influence China’s strategic goals.

China continues to insist on reunification with Taiwan and has not ruled out military force. It has stepped up military pressure in recent years, prompting Taiwan to plan defense upgrades. The US remains Taiwan's primary arms supplier, even as it maintains formal diplomatic ties with Beijing.

In response to the US arms sale, China imposed sanctions on American defense companies and vowed to firmly counter what it calls provocations from Taiwanese pro-independence forces and US support.

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi reiterated that complete reunification with Taiwan is a historical mission China is determined to achieve.

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