China conducted large-scale military drills around Taiwan as a warning to “independence forces” on the island, following criticism of a speech by Taiwan President Lai Ching-te. The drills, named “Joint Sword-2024B,” aimed to test the joint operations capability of the Chinese army, navy, air force, and rocket force. Vessels and aircraft approached Taiwan from various directions. China considers Lai a separatist and troublemaker, having previously conducted “punishment” drills after his inauguration in May.
Taiwan’s National Defense Ministry expressed readiness to respond to the war games, calling them irrational and provocative. The island’s Mainland Affairs Council criticized the exercises for disregarding the goodwill expressed by President Lai in his national day address. Lai emphasized Taiwan’s democracy, freedom, and sovereignty, stating that China had no right to represent the self-ruling democracy.
Chinese officials accused Lai of advancing Taiwan independence to increase cross-Strait tensions for his selfish political interests. Despite the threat posed by Beijing, a majority of people in Taiwan believe it is unlikely for China to invade in the next five years. The ongoing military activities around Taiwan demonstrate China’s determination to achieve its unification goal through force if necessary.
The exercises are seen as a stern warning to Taiwan’s separatist movements and a necessary operation to safeguard state sovereignty and national unity. The Taiwanese government stands firm in maintaining peace in the Taiwan Strait and rejects Beijing’s claims of representing Taiwan. The tension between China and Taiwan continues to escalate amid political differences and conflicting territorial claims.
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