Taiwan’s defense ministry reported a surge in Chinese warplane activity around the island during China’s “Joint Sword-2024B” drills. A record 153 Chinese military aircraft were detected, with 28 crossing the sensitive median line of the Taiwan Strait. Other areas of activity included Taiwan’s southeastern coast and the South China Sea near the Pratas Islands. Additionally, 14 Chinese navy ships and 12 official ships were spotted. Premier Cho Jung-tai stated that the drills were not just a Taiwan issue, but also had implications for regional peace and stability. Taiwan’s government rejects Beijing’s territorial claims and asserts that only the island’s people can determine their future. The Chinese drills were seen as a warning against “separatist acts” following Taiwan President Lai Ching-te’s national day speech, which Beijing denounced. The ministry emphasized that the drills had a significant impact on international navigational rights and the air and sea space of the region, attracting attention from other countries. Overall, the escalating military activity highlighted ongoing tensions between Taiwan and China, with Taiwan affirming its sovereignty and right to self-determination.
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