China launches large-scale military drills around Taiwan after US arms sale

New Delhi, Dec 29: China has launched large-scale military exercises around Taiwan, involving its army, navy, air force and rocket force, amid heightened tensions with the United States over defence ties with Taipei. According to Global Times, the mouthpiece of China, the drills by the PLA Eastern Theatre Command are a response to Washington’s recent approval of an $11.1 billion arms sale to Taiwan. Citing Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian, the report said the exercises were a “serious warning” to “Taiwan independence” forces and a necessary step to safeguard China’s national sovereignty and territorial integrity.

The drills, codenamed Justice Mission 2025, are aimed at stimulating the seizure and blockade of key areas of the island and include live-fire components.

Taiwan’s defence ministry said it detected Chinese aircraft and naval vessels operating around the island and has placed its forces and missile systems on high alert, reports international media. Taiwan’s presidential office criticised the exercises, calling them a challenge to international norms. The latest drills mark a further escalation in Chinese military activity around Taiwan, which has intensified since 2022 as Beijing opposes Taipei’s efforts to strengthen its defences with US support.