Taiwan has voiced strong condemnation of China’s recent military maneuvers, characterizing them as “provocative” and destabilizing. This reaction comes in the wake of a significant patrol conducted by the Chinese military around the island shortly after a conversation between the leaders of the United States and China.
On Friday, Taiwan’s defense ministry reported that it had detected 21 Chinese military aircraft operating in the vicinity, including both fighter jets and drones. Of these, 15 aircraft reportedly crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait as part of what was termed a “combat readiness patrol.” The ministry described these actions as highly provocative, warning that they contribute to regional instability and signify a blatant violation of the existing status quo.
China views Taiwan as a breakaway province and has consistently asserted its claim over the self-ruled island, refusing to dismiss the possibility of using military force to achieve reunification. Over recent years, China has escalated its military presence around Taiwan, with warplanes and naval vessels conducting operations in the area almost daily.
The timing of Friday’s patrol is particularly noteworthy, following a phone call on Thursday between U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping. During their discussion, the two leaders addressed the sensitive issue of Taiwan. Xi cautioned that the U.S. must approach the Taiwan situation with care to prevent Taiwanese independence advocates from provoking a conflict between China and the United States. This warning was reported by the Chinese state news agency Xinhua.
In the backdrop, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has indicated that China’s military is preparing intensively, potentially setting the stage for an invasion of Taiwan. His remarks underline the growing concerns regarding China’s intentions and escalating military posturing in the region. As tensions mount, the international community watches closely, with the potential for significant geopolitical implications hanging in the balance.
