What's happened
China launched extensive military exercises around Taiwan, including missile launches and naval deployments, in response to US arms sales and Taiwan's independence stance. The drills, called 'Justice Mission 2025,' aimed to demonstrate force and test regional capabilities, heightening regional tensions.
What's behind the headline?
China's 'Justice Mission 2025' drills serve multiple strategic purposes. They act as a show of force to deter Taiwanese independence and external support, especially from the US and its allies. The exercises also aim to test China's military coordination and blockade capabilities, signaling readiness for potential conflict. The regional response, including condemnation from Japan, Australia, and the Philippines, underscores the broader geopolitical stakes. While Beijing claims these actions are defensive, they significantly increase the risk of miscalculation, and the persistent military pressure suggests China is preparing for a possible forceful reunification, which could destabilize the Indo-Pacific region. The international community's response remains cautious, but the likelihood of escalation remains high, with Taiwan on high alert and regional powers closely monitoring developments.
What the papers say
Reuters reports that China fired dozens of rockets and deployed a large naval and air force presence near Taiwan, framing the drills as a necessary measure to defend sovereignty. The NY Post highlights President Xi Jinping's renewed warning of forceful reunification and the simulation of blockade tactics. France 24 criticizes the drills as provocative, noting Taiwan's condemnation and the regional concern over escalation. The New Arab emphasizes China's claims over Taiwan and the potential for military action, citing increased Chinese military activity and the US arms sales as catalysts. All sources agree that the drills mark China's most extensive military exercises to date, significantly raising regional tensions and highlighting China's intent to assert control over Taiwan.
How we got here
Tensions escalated after the US announced a record arms package to Taiwan, prompting China to conduct large-scale military exercises. China claims Taiwan as part of its territory and has repeatedly warned of possible forceful reunification. The drills are part of China's broader strategy to pressure Taiwan and demonstrate military strength amid regional and international scrutiny.
Go deeper
Common question
-
What Are the Key Global Security Risks in 2025-2026?
As tensions rise around the world, understanding the latest developments in regional security is crucial. From military alliances in Africa to China's military drills near Taiwan, these events shape the future of global stability. Here are some of the most pressing questions about current international security issues and what they mean for the world.
-
Why Did China Conduct Military Drills Around Taiwan?
China recently launched its largest military exercises around Taiwan, firing rockets and deploying ships and aircraft in a show of force. These drills have raised concerns about regional security and the future of US-China relations. Many wonder what China's intentions are and how these actions impact stability in the Asia-Pacific region. Below, we explore the reasons behind China's military maneuvers and what they mean for the broader geopolitical landscape.
-
What’s Happening with China, Syria, and Taiwan Right Now?
Recent developments in global conflicts have raised concerns worldwide. China’s military drills around Taiwan, ongoing clashes in Aleppo, and rising regional tensions are capturing attention. Curious about what’s driving these conflicts and what they mean for the world? Below, we answer the most common questions about these urgent issues and explore what might happen next.
More on these topics
-
Taiwan, officially the Republic of China, is a country in East Asia. Neighbouring countries include the People's Republic of China to the northwest, Japan to the northeast, and the Philippines to the south.
-
China, officially the People's Republic of China, is a country in East Asia. It is the world's most populous country, with a population of around 1.4 billion in 2019.
-
William Lai Ching-te is a Taiwanese politician who has been the Vice President of the Republic of China since 2020. He served as a legislator in the Legislative Yuan from 1999 to 2010, and as Mayor of Tainan from 2010 to 2017, prior to taking office as pr
-
The United States of America, commonly known as the United States or America, is a country mostly located in central North America, between Canada and Mexico.
-
Xi Jinping is a Chinese politician serving as the general secretary of the Communist Party of China, president of the People's Republic of China, and chairman of the Central Military Commission.
-
David Alfred Perdue Jr. is an American businessman and politician serving as the senior United States Senator for Georgia since 2015.