Beijing sent 14 warships, seven military aircraft and four balloons near Taiwan between Saturday and Sunday.
China’s naval maneuvers near Taiwan intensified over the weekend, with Taiwan’s Defense Ministry reporting 14 warships, seven military aircraft, and four balloons in the region.
The heightened activity follows Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te’s visits to Pacific allies, including stopovers in the United States, which Beijing strongly opposed.Why is Beijing Increasing Pressure on Taiwan?
China views Taiwan as an integral part of its territory and has repeatedly expressed its willingness to annex the self-ruled democracy of 23 million people, by military force if necessary.
Beijing’s irritation has grown over Taiwan’s diplomatic interactions with other nations, particularly the United States, which, while not officially recognizing Taiwan, remains its primary supporter and arms supplier.
The military activity occurred over 24 hours from Saturday to Sunday morning, with six aircraft crossing the Taiwan Strait’s median line, an informal boundary between the two sides.
