The Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) has intensified military exercises around the Taiwan region this week, with defense officials calling the drills a “legitimate and necessary” response to provocations by leaders in Taipei. The maneuvers, conducted by the PLA Eastern Theater Command across waters north, south, and east of Taiwan Island, included simulated strike operations by the Shandong aircraft carrier task group.
Defense Ministry spokesperson Zhang Xiaogang emphasized on Wednesday that the exercises aim to counter escalating tensions fueled by what Beijing describes as “reckless separatist actions” from Taiwan leader Lai Ching-te and local authorities. “Taiwan independence and peace across the strait are as irreconcilable as fire and water,” Zhang stated, warning that “those who play with fire will eventually get burned.”
Analysts view the drills as Beijing’s latest effort to assert its territorial claims while discouraging foreign interference. Zhang urged unspecified countries to adhere to the one-China principle and avoid emboldening “forces seeking to split China.” The PLA pledged to enhance combat readiness to “resolutely crush all Taiwan independence activities,” reaffirming commitment to eventual unification.
The maneuvers coincide with heightened geopolitical scrutiny across Asia, drawing attention from investors and policymakers assessing regional stability risks. Cross-strait relations remain a focal point for diplomatic and economic observers tracking China’s military posture and Taiwan’s responses.
