China is testing its power by holding military drills around Taiwan, according to the People’s Liberation Army. These drills are the largest in over a year and come right after Taiwan’s new president, Lai Ching-te, took office. Beijing doesn’t like Lai because he supports Taiwan’s independence.
The Chinese military started the exercises on Thursday, sending ships and planes around Taiwan to punish what they call separatist actions. They’re continuing the drills on Friday to test their ability to take control of key areas.
China sees Taiwan as part of its territory and has promised to take it back, even by force if necessary. But most Taiwanese don’t want to be ruled by China. However, China’s leader, Xi Jinping, insists that Taiwan will eventually reunite with the mainland.
These two-day exercises involve China’s army, navy, air force, and rocket force. They’re happening in the Taiwan Strait and around Taiwan’s outlying islands. Taiwan has condemned China’s actions and sent its own forces in response.
During the exercises, China sent many aircraft and warships near Taiwan, causing tensions. But Taiwan says it’s ready to protect its democracy and freedom from any threats.
In Beijing, a big screen displays a Chinese fighter jet joining China’s military exercises near Taiwan on May 23, 2020.
First week on the job
Lai’s first week as president has been busy and full of challenges since he took over from Tsai Ing-wen. This marks the start of the ruling Democratic Progressive Party’s third term.
The military drills by the PLA are the first big test for Lai in handling tensions with Beijing. Despite his offer to talk and resume exchanges, Beijing has refused.
At home, Lai faces turmoil in the legislature where opposition parties, who prefer closer ties with China, have a majority. They’re pushing for more scrutiny of his administration.
Many young people have protested against fast-tracking bills to give more power to parliament. Despite China’s show of force, life in Taiwan goes on as usual. Taiwanese are used to China’s threats, but they remain confident.
“We are not scared of the Chinese Communist Party, and we have confidence,” said an 88-year-old retiree.
A 42-year-old mother said she wasn’t even aware of the PLA drills. She believes leaders will prioritize people’s happiness and maintain peace.
China’s Coast Guard practices near Taiwan. Photo from China Coast Guard/Weibo.
“Surrounding Taiwan”
China’s military drills serve both domestic and international purposes, with state media increasing coverage of the exercises.
According to Zhang Chi, a Chinese military expert, the drills are practicing a new method of blockading Taiwan. Taiwan heavily relies on imports for its economy, especially energy, and the drills aim to simulate cutting off these imports and isolating the island.
The drills target Taiwan’s largest port, Kaohsiung, and aim to cut off energy imports and escape routes for Taiwan independence forces.
These exercises also involve China’s Coast Guard moving close to Taiwan’s outlying islands, which experts see as provocative and potentially dangerous.
However, analysts believe these drills are more about sending a political message than a direct military threat. China wants to assert its influence over Taiwan’s new administration and increase divisions within the island.
Overall, these exercises are part of China’s ongoing efforts to pressure and influence Taiwan both politically and militarily.