China announced a major mobilization of its armed forces, including the army, navy, air force and rocket units, around Taiwan for live-fire military exercises after the $11 billion arms deal between Taiwan and the United States.
China says the exercises, dubbed “Mission Justice-2025”, constitute a serious warning to all separatist forces and external forces that interfere in the island’s internal affairs.
The People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Eastern Theater Command said the exercises would test the combat readiness of its troops and simulate “the blockade and control of major ports and critical areas.”
It adds: “As ships and aircraft approach the nearby island of Taiwan from different directions, troops from multiple services engage in joint assaults to test their joint operational capabilities. »
Despite the condemnation of the Taiwanese authorities, the Chinese army considers this to be a legitimate and necessary action to safeguard China’s sovereignty and national unity.
The United States has not yet responded to the war games; However, Taiwan’s Defense Ministry condemned the exercises and accused China of escalating tensions.
They also announced counter-exercises carried out by their own forces to “defend democracy and freedom”.
China considers Taiwan its province and is preparing to annex it, with US intelligence reports suggesting China could invade the island by 2027.
However, China has repeatedly urged Taiwan (official name: Republic of China) to accept peaceful reunification, but Taiwan rejects the offer and strengthens its defenses to prepare for a possible invasion.
