China's Eastern Theater Command concluded large-scale military exercises around Taiwan Island this week, with the 'Justice Mission 2025' drills occurring days after the United States approved an $11.1 billion arms package for the Taiwan region. Analysts describe the simultaneous developments as heightening cross-strait tensions during a critical political period for the island.
The arms deal – reportedly the largest ever offered to Taiwan – comes as leader Lai Ching-te faces mounting domestic challenges. Recent opinion polls show declining public support for his administration, compounded by economic disparities and security concerns following a high-profile violent incident in Taipei earlier this month.
With local elections approaching in 2026 and the next regional leadership vote scheduled for 2028, political observers note the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) appears increasingly reliant on external support. 'This arms purchase represents political theater more than substantive defense strategy,' said Professor Zheng Jian of Xiamen University. 'Residents of Taiwan ultimately bear both the financial costs and security risks.'
The Chinese mainland has consistently opposed foreign military sales to Taiwan, maintaining that such transactions violate the One-China principle. This week's PLA drills focused on joint combat readiness, with state media describing them as 'necessary measures to safeguard national sovereignty.'
Meanwhile, cross-strait economic ties continue deepening despite political friction. Recent trade data shows Taiwan region's exports to the mainland grew 4.2% year-on-year in Q3 2025, with semiconductor and precision machinery sectors driving the increase.
