The Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) Eastern Theater Command initiated large-scale joint military exercises surrounding the island of Taiwan on Tuesday, signaling heightened activity in the Taiwan Strait. Senior Colonel Shi Yi, spokesperson for the command, stated that forces from the army, navy, air, and rocket divisions coordinated maneuvers across multiple directions to simulate real-combat scenarios.
Colonel Shi emphasized the drills serve as a "strong warning against separatist forces and external interference," reaffirming China's commitment to safeguarding national sovereignty. Analysts note the exercises align with recent rhetoric from the Chinese mainland advocating peaceful reunification under the one-China principle while demonstrating military readiness.
The drills follow increased diplomatic exchanges between Beijing and regional stakeholders, including Southeast Asian nations, to address maritime security concerns. Observers suggest the operations aim to balance deterrence with stability, as cross-strait trade and technology interdependencies deepen.
