China Commences Large-Scale Military Drills 'Encircling' Taiwan in Warning to New President Lai
Just a few days after Taiwan's newly elected president, Lai Ching-te, took office, China's military initiated extensive military drills on Thursday morning (local time). These exercises, involving the People's Liberation Army (PLA) navy ships and aircraft, are reportedly "encircling the island of Taiwan," as per state media and PLA reports.
Details of the Military Drills
The drills are taking place in the Taiwan Strait and to the north, south, and east of the island. They are also occurring near the disputed small islands of Kinmen, Matsu, Wuqiu, and Dongyin in the East China Sea.
According to the Xinhua news agency, "The Eastern Theater Command of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) began joint military drills encircling the island of Taiwan from 7:45 a.m. Thursday (2345 GMT)."
The drills, named Joint Sword-2024A, will "concentrate on joint sea-air combat-readiness patrol, joint seizure of comprehensive battlefield control, and joint precision strikes on key targets," as stated by military spokesman Li Xi. The exercises will involve the patrol of vessels and planes approaching areas around Taiwan and integrated operations inside and outside the island chain to test the joint real combat capabilities of the forces of the command.
Significance of the Drills
Xinhua quoted the spokesman as saying that these drills will serve as a "severe punishment for the separatist acts of 'Taiwan independence' forces and a stern warning against the interference and provocation by external forces."
In his first speech as president, Lai urged China "to cease their political and military intimidations against Taiwan and share with Taiwan the global responsibility of maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait, as well as the greater region, and to ensure the world is free from the fear of war."
Beijing's View of Lai
Beijing has previously labeled Lai as a "dangerous separatist" who will bring about future "war and decline" for Taiwan, which China has long claimed as its own territory.
In his inaugural speech, Lai emphasized, "I have always believed that if the leader of a country puts people’s welfare above all, then peace in the Taiwan Strait, mutual benefits, and prosperous coexistence would be common goals. I hope that China will face the reality of the Republic of China’s existence."
Implications of the Drills
While China regularly sends jets to buzz Taiwan's air defense identification zone, the commencement of these drills represents a significant escalation, reminiscent of when then-House Speaker Nancy Pelosi landed in Taipei in 2022.
Washington and Taiwan's Western supporters will undoubtedly monitor how expansive and threatening these new encircling exercises are, especially at a time when the world's attention is already on other conflict zones in Ukraine and Gaza, where the United States is involved in funding/arming one side.
Reflection on the Situation
This recent development is a stark reminder of the delicate and complex geopolitical landscape that continues to evolve in East Asia. The escalating military drills around Taiwan underscore the potential for conflict and the precarious balance of power in the region. What are your thoughts on this situation? Do you think these drills are a legitimate warning or an unnecessary provocation? Share your thoughts and opinions with your friends, and don't forget to sign up for the Daily Briefing, which is delivered every day at 6pm.