China, maxi military exercise around Taiwan: tension skyrockets

Manoeuvres with naval units, air and ground forces. Taipei mobilises jets and ships, denounces ‘irrational provocations’

Beijing has launched a new large-scale military exercise around Taiwan, deploying ground forces, naval units and air forces in manoeuvres simulating the encirclement of the island. The operation, described by Chinese authorities as a ‘stern warning’ to Taiwanese separatist forces, was confirmed by the spokesman of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army’s Eastern Theatre Command, Shi Yi, according to the official Xinhua news agency.

The Chinese Coast Guard has also intensified its activities, carrying out patrols and simulated interceptions and detentions of ships deemed unauthorised in the surrounding waters. Beijing’s position is clear: Taiwan is considered a rebel province to be ‘reunified’ by any means necessary. ‘Independence means war,’ reiterated Zhu Fenglian, spokesman for the Taiwan Affairs Office, pointing the finger at President Lai Ching-te, described as a ‘dangerous separatist’.

Taipei responded by mobilising its air force and naval units to monitor Chinese moves. The Defence Ministry confirmed the presence of the aircraft carrier Shandong in the vicinity, speaking of an escalation that ‘undermines peace in the region’. Minister Wellington Koo announced the activation of a response centre to monitor the situation.

The Taiwanese government harshly condemned the Chinese military manoeuvres, accusing Beijing of intensifying political and military pressure with ‘grey zone’ strategies designed to destabilise the island’s security without escalating to open conflict. In the background, the fear of more drastic action by China in the coming years remains, with 2027 mentioned in official Taipei documents as a possible date for an invasion.

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