As tensions in the Taiwan Strait persist, Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defense (MND) announced early Saturday that seven Chinese military planes and five naval vessels had operated close to its territory.
“Seven PLA aircraft and five PLAN vessels operating around Taiwan were detected up until 6 am (UTC+8) today. One of the aircraft crossed the median line and entered Taiwan’s northern Air Defense Identification Zone (ADIZ). We have monitored the situation and responded accordingly,” the MND said.
Following reports of similar activities in the days prior, this represents a continuation of the heightened Chinese military presence in the area. Five PLAN vessels were spotted operating close to the island on Thursday, while Taiwan’s MND reported the presence of five Chinese planes and five military vessels on Friday.
Geopolitical tensions continue to center on the Taiwan Strait. Japan, Taiwan’s main ally and neighbor, has voiced alarm about the growing military presence in the area.
Mark Rutte, the secretary general of NATO, also criticized China’s moves, saying Beijing was “bullying Taiwan” and attempting to seize control of vital infrastructure in ways that could cause social unrest. He cited China’s growing military might, particularly its nuclear arsenal, as a reason for international alarm.
However, China has not ruled out using force to bring Taiwan back together since it sees it as an essential component of its territory. Chinese military operations near Taiwan have frequently been a source of conflict, with Beijing defending its actions by claiming they are required to protect national sovereignty.
Meanwhile, Taiwan has defended its right to sovereignty and self-defense by continuously denouncing China’s military actions. Officials contend that such measures jeopardize regional harmony and impede global trade.
The United States and other democratic friends, who favor preserving the status quo and oppose unilateral changes by force, have back the island.
