China Conducts Major Military Exercises Around Taiwan Amid Rising U.S.-China Tensions

China has commenced significant military exercises around Taiwan, described as a ‘stern warning’ following U.S. Defense Secretary Hegseth’s visit emphasizing countering Chinese aggression. The drills underscore Taiwan’s peril from China’s military threats, prompting condemnation from Taiwanese officials. Tensions are further heightened by recent incidents and China’s broader military policy under President Xi Jinping.

On Tuesday, the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) of China announced the initiation of extensive joint military exercises involving its army, navy, air force, and rocket force surrounding Taiwan. These operations, categorized as a “stern warning,” follow the U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s commitment to countering what he termed as “China’s aggression” during a recent visit to Asia. The PLA stated that the exercises are designed to enhance operational capabilities by closing in on Taiwan from multiple directions, emphasizing sea-air combat readiness and blockade operations.

The military drills highlight the ongoing threats to Taiwan from China, which claims the self-governing democracy as a breakaway province. Joseph Wu, Secretary-General of Taiwan’s National Security Council, condemned the maneuvers as “reckless” and “irresponsible,” arguing that they undermine peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. He accused China of inciting tension without justification and called for democratic nations to denounce these aggressive actions.

Secretary Hegseth’s visit to Asia has attracted significant scrutiny in the context of the shifting defense strategies of the United States. During his travels, he emphasized the importance of alliances in the Indo-Pacific, pledging to enhance security collaborations with nations such as the Philippines and recognizing Japan as a key ally against China’s military assertiveness. Analysis from Taiwan’s government suggests that Hegseth’s trip may have influenced China’s decision to initiate the military drills as a form of strategic response.

Under President Xi Jinping, China’s military presence around Taiwan has intensified, with increased patrols and exercises reinforcing its territorial claims. Experts caution that China’s simulated blockades could signal preparations for a potential takeover of Taiwan. In the political landscape, Taiwan’s leadership is under scrutiny, particularly following President Lai Ching-te’s inauguration, which China viewed as a push towards independence.

The tension between China and Taiwan has been further exacerbated by recent incidents, including the Taiwanese government’s detention of a Chinese cargo ship and the deportation of a Chinese influencer advocating for a military takeover. Taiwan remains a critical focal point in U.S.-China relations, with the United States maintaining unofficial relationships with Taipei and providing military support for defense.

In summary, China’s large-scale military exercises around Taiwan serve as both a demonstration of military capability and a reaction to perceived threats from U.S. support for Taiwan. The exercises have provoked strong condemnation from Taiwanese officials and illustrate the capacity for escalating tensions in the Indo-Pacific region. As military postures intensify, the situation remains precarious, requiring careful diplomatic management to avert potential conflict.

Original Source: www.business-standard.com