China has announced a major mobilization of its armed forces, including the army, navy, air force and missile units, around Taiwan for live-fire military exercises following Taiwan’s $11 billion arms deal with the United States.
China says the drills, dubbed “Justice Mission-2025,” are a serious warning to all separatist forces and external forces meddling in the island’s internal affairs.
The People’s Liberation Army’s (PLA) Eastern Theater Command said the exercises would test its troops’ combat readiness and simulate “the blockade and control of major ports and critical areas.”
It added: “With vessels and aircraft approaching Taiwan Island in close proximity from different directions, troops from multiple services are engaging in joint strikes to test their joint operational capabilities.”
Despite condemnation from the Taiwanese authorities, the Chinese military considers it a legitimate and necessary action to ensure China’s sovereignty and national unity.
The US has yet to respond to the war games; However, Taiwan’s defense minister condemned the drills and accused China of escalating tensions.
They also announced counter-exercises by its own forces to “defend democracy and freedom”.
China considers Taiwan its province and is preparing to annex it, with US intelligence reports suggesting China could invade the island by 2027.
However, China has repeatedly called on Taiwan (formal name: Republic of China) to accept peaceful reunification, but Taiwan rejects the offer and is strengthening its defenses to prepare for a possible invasion.
