China has just issued a strong warning to Taiwan by launching military drills around the island. The exercises, known as Joint Sword-2024B, are meant to showcase the joint operational capabilities of China’s theater command troops. Taking place in the Taiwan Strait and surrounding areas, the drills involve various services engaging in sea-air combat-readiness, blockade operations, assaults on targets, and joint seizure of superiority.
This move is in response to what China calls the “separatist acts of Taiwan Independence forces.” With vessels and aircraft approaching Taiwan from different directions, China is sending a clear message to deter any moves towards independence from Taiwan. The Defense Ministry did not specify when the drills would conclude, leaving tensions high in the region.
The military exercises serve as a reminder of China’s determination to maintain control over Taiwan and to prevent any moves towards independence. The message is clear: Taiwan is an integral part of China, and any attempts to break away will be met with force.