China-Taiwan Tensions Escalate with Drills

a { color: #880000 !important; background: #ffeeee !important; } Latest NewsChina-Taiwan Tensions Escalate with DrillsAsia-Pacific > MilitaryChina has conducted large-scale military drills around Taiwan, dubbed Joint Sword-2024A, as a response to the inauguration of Taiwan's new president, William Lai Ching-te. The exercises, which took place from May 23 to May 25, involved simulated attacks and blockades, raising tensions in the Taiwan Strait. Taiwan has responded by announcing its own live-fire drills and tightening security measures against drones from mainland China. The situation has drawn international attention, with the US and other countries expressing concern over the escalating tensions.

What's happened

China has conducted large-scale military drills around Taiwan, dubbed Joint Sword-2024A, as a response to the inauguration of Taiwan's new president, William Lai Ching-te. The exercises, which took place from May 23 to May 25, involved simulated attacks and blockades, raising tensions in the Taiwan Strait. Taiwan has responded by announcing its own live-fire drills and tightening security measures against drones from mainland China. The situation has drawn international attention, with the US and other countries expressing concern over the escalating tensions.

What's behind the headline?

What the papers say

According to the South China Morning Post, the drills were described as a 'strong punishment for the separatist acts of Taiwan independence forces.' The Japan Times reported that the exercises were intended to 'test the ability to jointly seize power, launch joint attacks, and occupy key areas.' Business Insider UK highlighted that the drills 'looked like a rehearsal for an invasion,' according to US Indo-Pacific Commander Adm. Samuel Paparo. The Independent noted that the exercises were a response to Taiwan's new president's pro-independence remarks.

How we got here

The tensions between China and Taiwan have been ongoing for decades, with China viewing Taiwan as a breakaway province that must be reunified with the mainland, by force if necessary. Taiwan, on the other hand, sees itself as a sovereign state. The recent escalation began with the inauguration of Taiwan's new president, William Lai Ching-te, who has made pro-independence remarks in the past. In response, China launched large-scale military drills around Taiwan, simulating attacks and blockades. Taiwan has responded with its own military exercises and increased security measures.

Go deeper

What are the potential global impacts of the China-Taiwan tensions?
How has the international community responded to the recent drills?
What measures is Taiwan taking to counter China's military actions?

Common question

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