Politics China launches military maneuvers around Taiwan

The Chinese People's Army has begun military exercises around Taiwan. During the "Joint Sword-2024B" maneuver, Chinese aircraft and ships are deployed around the island, the Ministry of Defense in Beijing said on Monday.

The aim is to test "joint operational capabilities". The Taiwanese Ministry of Defense condemned China's military manoeuvres as "irrational and provocative behaviour". In response, it has activated "appropriate troops" "to protect freedom and democracy and defend (Taiwan's) sovereignty".

China has stepped up its military activities around Taiwan in recent years and regularly deployed fighter jets. Chinese ships are almost constantly present in Taiwan's waters. On Sunday, the sighting of the Chinese aircraft carrier "Liaoning" put Taiwan "on high alert", according to the Ministry of Defense in Taipei. On Friday, US Secretary of State Antony Blinken had warned China against "provocative" measures against Taiwan.

Taipei wants to oppose "annexation"

China regards Taiwan as a renegade province that should be reunited with the mainland - by military force if necessary. Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te countered this in a speech on Thursday during the celebrations for Taiwan's National Day, stating that Taipei would oppose "annexation" by Beijing. He emphasized that Taiwan was not "subordinate" to China.

China then warned that Lai's "provocations" would lead to a "catastrophe" for the Taiwanese people.

SDA