Taipei: Taiwan’s defence ministry reported a sharp rise in Chinese naval activity around the island, with 14 warships spotted in the past 24 hours, nearly double the eight recorded the previous day. This escalation comes amid growing tensions following Taiwan President Lai Ching-te’s recent Pacific tour, which included visits to Hawaii and Guam.
China, which claims Taiwan as its territory, has expressed anger over Lai’s trip. Security sources suggest the increase in naval activity could signal preparations for another round of military exercises, adding to the two major war games Beijing has already conducted this year.
In addition to the heightened naval presence, Taiwan’s defence ministry detected four Chinese balloons flying over the Taiwan Strait, with one skimming the island’s northern edge. Poor weather conditions in the strait this weekend may influence the timing of any potential Chinese military drills, according to security analysts.
Beijing has not officially commented on these developments. However, the Chinese Ministry of State Security issued a statement on Sunday via WeChat, condemning Lai’s actions and the U.S.’s support for Taiwan.
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“Lai’s attempts to ‘use arms to seek independence’ and align with the United States are destined to fail,” the statement declared, accusing the U.S. of “acting in cahoots with gangsters and jackals.” It also warned that “no country, organisation, or individual” should underestimate China’s resolve to safeguard its sovereignty and territorial integrity, adding that actions challenging China’s stance on Taiwan would carry consequences.
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Taiwan’s government, steadfast in rejecting Beijing’s claims, continues to emphasize its sovereignty and democratic governance.
