China Conducts Military Exercises Near Taiwan As A ‘Stern Punishment’

China has commenced a two-day series of military exercises around Taiwan, labeling them as a “strong punishment” for the island’s “separatist acts.” The drills follow the inauguration of President William Lai, who urged China to cease threatening Taiwan and recognize its democracy. China views Taiwan as a breakaway province destined to come under Beijing’s control, while Taiwan considers itself distinct.

Taiwan’s defense ministry condemned the exercises as “irrational provocations” and deployed naval, air, and ground forces to defend its sovereignty. For the first time, Thursday’s drills simulated a full-scale attack rather than an economic blockade, targeting not only the main island but also the Taipei-controlled islands of Kinmen, Matsu, Wuqiu, and Dongyin.

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The drills extended to Taiwan’s east coast, highlighting its military installations and supply routes. By patrolling this area, China aims to demonstrate that Taiwan’s eastern flank is vulnerable to attack and to signal to the U.S. that resupply efforts could be disrupted.

The PLA emphasized that the drills focused on joint sea-air combat-readiness, precision strikes, and integrated operations to test its forces’ real combat capabilities. Military expert Chieh Chung noted that the exercise aims to simulate a full-scale invasion of Taiwan.

China has frequently practiced encircling Taiwan with military assets, and recent incursions increased ahead of Lai’s inauguration. Beijing insists these drills are necessary to safeguard national sovereignty, stressing that Taiwan is an inalienable part of China. Taiwan’s leadership condemned the military provocations and reiterated their commitment to maintaining peace across the strait. Despite ongoing trade, formal communication channels between China and Taiwan remain closed.