Chinese Military Activity Near Taiwan Increases - Taiwan's Ministry of National Defence (MND) announced on Monday that it detected significant Chinese military activity near its territory from 6 am Sunday to 6 am Monday (local time). This included 21 Chinese military aircraft, 11 naval vessels, and four coast guard vessels.

Of the 21 aircraft, 10 entered Taiwan's southwestern and southeastern air defense identification zone (ADIZ). In response, Taiwan's armed forces monitored the situation closely, deploying naval vessels and coastal missiles.

In a statement on social media platform X, Taiwan's MND said, "21 PLA aircraft, 11 PLAN vessels, and 4 CCG vessels operating around Taiwan were detected up until 6 a.m. today. 10 of the aircraft entered Taiwan's southwestern and southeastern ADIZ. ROC Armed Forces have monitored the situation and employed CAP aircraft, Navy vessels, and coastal missile systems in response to the detected activities."

Earlier on Saturday, the MND reported the presence of seven Chinese military aircraft and 10 naval vessels around Taiwan. The statement highlighted the ongoing tracking of these activities and Taiwan's responsive measures.

The increasing military presence underscores the escalating tensions in the Taiwan Strait, reflecting the complex geopolitical landscape. Taiwan remains committed to defending its sovereignty and democratic values amid rising military pressure from China.

Shortly after Lai Ching-te was inaugurated as Taiwan's President, China initiated two-day military drills around Taiwan, described as "punishment" for so-called "separatist acts." According to China's state broadcaster CCTV, the drills included mock strikes by Chinese fighter jets and maneuvers by destroyers, frigates, and missile speedboats.

Despite never having controlled Taiwan, China's ruling Communist Party claims the island and has threatened to take it by force if necessary. The drills began at 7:45 am Thursday and involved various branches of the military, including the army, navy, air force, and rocket force.

PLA Naval Colonel Li Xi, the command's spokesperson, stated that the exercises served as "a strong punishment for the separatist acts of Taiwan independence forces and a serious warning against interference and provocation by external forces."

In response, Taiwan deployed its own warships to monitor the situation. Beijing views President Lai Ching-te as a "dangerous separatist" for supporting Taiwan's sovereignty and identity. Lai succeeded two-term President Tsai Ing-wen, marking the Democratic Progressive Party's third consecutive term.

Beijing criticized Lai's inauguration speech, in which he called on China to cease its intimidation of Taiwan. Lai urged Beijing to stop political and military threats against Taiwan and to work together to maintain peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait and the broader region.

Lai, a former doctor and vice president, was sworn in alongside Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim, who previously served as Taiwan's principal ambassador to the United States. Beijing publicly condemned both leaders and their party for advocating Taiwan's sovereignty.

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