China has announced plans to conduct large-scale military maneuvers around Taiwan, including live-fire drills, escalating tensions in the Taiwan Strait.
The announcement comes shortly after the United States approved a major new weapons package for Taiwan, a self-governed democracy that Beijing claims as part of its territory.
According to Chinese authorities, the fire drills are intended to serve as a “serious warning” against what Beijing describes as external interference and separatist activities related to Taiwan.
The exercises are expected to involve naval, air, and missile forces operating in areas surrounding the island, further heightening regional security concerns.
The United States’ decision to approve additional arms sales to Taiwan has drawn strong criticism from China, which views such moves as violations of its sovereignty and a threat to regional stability.
Washington, however, maintains that the arms package is consistent with its long-standing policy of helping Taiwan maintain the capability to defend itself.