The Chinese mainland has characterized recent military exercises near Taiwan as a direct response to separatist activities, with State Council Taiwan Affairs Office spokesperson Zhang Han stating the maneuvers aim to 'safeguard national sovereignty and territorial integrity.' Conducted on December 29-30 under the codename 'Justice Mission 2025,' the PLA Eastern Theater Command drills involved joint naval, air, and ground forces simulating realistic combat scenarios.
Zhang emphasized during Wednesday's press briefing that such operations serve as a 'stern warning against collusion between Taiwan independence forces and external elements attempting to disrupt cross-strait stability.' Analysts note these drills follow increased political activity from Taiwan authorities ahead of key regional elections in early 2026.
While maintaining that military measures remain a last resort, the spokesperson reiterated Beijing's commitment to peaceful reunification under the 'One China' principle. The developments occur amid heightened interest from global investors monitoring the Taiwan Strait's security landscape, with multinational corporations reassessing supply chain vulnerabilities in the region.
