China Launches Largest-Ever Military Drills Near Taiwan Amid Rising Tensions

China has begun its largest military exercises around Taiwan. The drills, code-named “Justice Mission 2025,” started this week. They include extensive live-firing exercises conducted over many hours.According to Reuters, these war games represent a significant escalation. They come just days after the United States approved a major new arms sale to Taiwan. The situation has heightened fears of a potential conflict in the strategically vital region.

A Direct Response to US Arms Sales and “Separatism”

Chinese officials state the drills are a direct punitive action. They accuse Taiwan’s ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) of pushing a separatist agenda. The Ministry of National Defense called Taiwan independence “incompatible with peace.”The timing is critically important. The exercises began only 11 days after the US announced a record $11.1 billion arms package for Taiwan. Beijing views this as a severe provocation and a breach of its core interests.China’s foreign ministry condemned the arms purchase. It labeled Taiwan’s authorities as “war-mongers” and saboteurs of stability. The ministry warned that arming Taiwan pushes the Strait closer to armed conflict.China emphasized that the Taiwan question is at the core of its national interests. It vowed a firm response to any provocations and stated that all attempts to resist reunification will fail.

Regional Stability and International Reaction

The scale of the drills signals Beijing’s readiness to use force. China claims Taiwan as part of its territory, a position Taiwan’s government firmly rejects. Taiwan maintains that only its 23 million people can decide their future.Any military conflict over Taiwan would have devastating global consequences. It could disrupt world trade and draw in other major powers. The region is a crucial channel for international shipping and commerce.International reaction has been measured. When asked about the drills, former US President Donald Trump downplayed immediate concerns. He referenced China’s long history of exercises in the area, though current analysts view this round as distinctly more aggressive.

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These China Taiwan military drills represent a dangerous new peak in cross-strait tensions. The world watches closely as Beijing demonstrates its capability and will to assert control over the island it views as a breakaway province.

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What is the “Justice Mission 2025”?

It is the code name for China’s latest and largest military exercises around Taiwan. The drills involve multiple branches of the People’s Liberation Army and include live-fire components.

Why did China start these drills now?

Analysts point to two main triggers. The primary catalyst was the recent US arms sale to Taiwan. Beijing also cites the political actions of Taiwan’s ruling party as a reason for the show of force.

How has Taiwan responded?

Taiwan’s government has condemned the drills as a threat to regional peace. It has mobilized its own forces to monitor the situation and asserts its right to self-defense and democracy.

Could these drills lead to actual war?

While intended as a demonstration, the risk of miscalculation is high. Military accidents or escalated rhetoric during such large-scale exercises can inadvertently spark a broader conflict.

What does China want regarding Taiwan?

China’s stated goal is eventual “reunification.” It has offered a “one country, two systems” model, similar to Hong Kong, but this is overwhelmingly rejected by Taiwan’s population and major political parties.

Trusted Sources: Reuters