Why are Over 200 Chinese Aircraft Flying Around Taiwan?
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Synopsis
Taiwan's Defence Ministry reveals that over 200 Chinese military planes have been detected near the island amid ongoing exercises. This military action is perceived as a warning against separatism, with implications for regional stability and international relations. Dive into the details of these developments that could affect global peace and trade.
Key Takeaways
- 207 Chinese military aircraft were detected near Taiwan.
- 125 planes crossed into Taiwan's air defense identification zone.
- China's military exercises are seen as a warning against separatism.
- Taiwan's military is on high alert in response to these actions.
- The situation raises concerns for regional stability and international relations.
Taipei, Dec 31 (NationPress) The Defence Ministry of Taiwan reported on Wednesday that 207 military aircraft from China have circled the self-governing island over a span of 48 hours, as Beijing continues its military exercises, which are seen as a warning against separatism.
Out of the total aircraft noted by 6 a.m., 125 crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait and entered Taiwan's air defense identification zone, according to reports from Kyodo News based in Japan. This median line was previously respected by both China and Taiwan but has been largely disregarded by Beijing in recent years.
On Tuesday, the Chinese military launched 27 rockets in two separate waves from Fujian province, targeting waters to the north and southwest of Taiwan between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m.
China views Taiwan as a breakaway province that must be reunified with the mainland, even by force if necessary, asserting that the ongoing military exercises, which began on Monday, are intended to counteract separatism and prevent external interference.
In a statement on Wednesday, Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te commended the military for its swift response to China's actions and criticized Beijing for its military maneuvers near Japan and in the South China Sea.
Lai emphasized that these operations targeting Taiwan are not isolated incidents, but rather a warning that the mainland's authoritarian expansion and increasing coercion are creating instability in the region, affecting global shipping, trade, and peace.
On Monday, Taiwan's Ministry of Defence condemned the deployment of air, naval, and rocket forces by China for joint military drills around the island.
The Ministry indicated that it has placed its military forces on high alert and opposed the actions of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA), warning that such drills jeopardize regional peace.
This development follows the recent approval of a significant arms package exceeding $10 billion for Taiwan by the United States. In retaliation, Beijing called on the U.S. to cease its dangerous actions of arming Taiwan. China's Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Guo Jiakun, stated that this move severely undermines China's sovereignty, security, and territorial integrity.
“We strongly condemn the irrational provocations from the PRC and oppose the PLA's actions that threaten regional peace. Rapid Response Exercises are currently underway, with forces on high alert to defend the Republic of China and safeguard our citizens,” Taiwan's Defence Ministry announced on X.
According to the Defence Ministry, on Monday morning, there were sightings of two PLA aircraft sorties, nine PLA vessels, and two government ships continuing their activities in the Taiwan Strait. The Ministry reassured that the Taiwanese armed forces are closely monitoring and responding with military aircraft, ships, and shore-based missile systems.
Point of View
I believe that the recent military activities by China around Taiwan highlight a troubling trend in regional dynamics. While Taiwan remains resolute in its defense, the international community must remain vigilant and supportive of efforts to maintain peace and stability in the region. We should advocate for dialogue to avert further escalation.
NationPress
03/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted China's military exercises near Taiwan?
China's military exercises are seen as a warning against separatism, emphasizing its stance on Taiwan as a breakaway region.
How has Taiwan responded to China's military actions?
Taiwan has placed its military forces on high alert and condemned China's actions, stating that they jeopardize regional peace.
What are the implications of the US arms package for Taiwan?
The US arms package, valued at over $10 billion, is expected to bolster Taiwan's defense capabilities amid rising tensions with China.
