China Holds Military Drills Near Taiwan, Island Nation Responds
Beijing – China’s military has started drills around Taiwan, calling it a “stern warning” to those who want Taiwan to be separate and to outside forces that interfere. Taiwan has put its military on alert.
These drills follow China’s anger over the United States selling weapons to Taiwan and a statement from a Japanese leader about Japan’s possible involvement if China attacks Taiwan. China views Taiwan as part of its territory.
Taiwan’s Defense Ministry says they are ready to defend the island. They have called China’s actions aggressive and a threat to peace.
China says the drills will happen in the Taiwan Strait and areas around Taiwan, focusing on sea and air combat, taking control, and blocking key ports. They say this is to warn those who want Taiwan to be independent and to protect China’s land and unity.
China and Taiwan have been separate since 1949 when the Communist Party took power in China and the Nationalist Party fled to Taiwan. Taiwan has its own government, but China claims it as its own.
The Chinese military is using ships, planes, and rockets in the drills. They are practicing shooting at targets in the sea. Taiwan says many Chinese planes and ships are operating near the island.
Taiwan believes these drills put military pressure on them and could cause problems for other countries in the region.
Last week, China put sanctions on U.S. companies and leaders involved in defense, after the U.S. announced a large arms sale to Taiwan. The U.S. has a long-standing law to help Taiwan defend itself, which has caused tension with China.
Taiwan says China is threatening the stability of the region and going against international rules. They strongly condemn China’s actions. Taiwan has released a video showing its military strength.
