China lays siege to Taiwan, using 25 fighter planes and 7 naval vessels

Jakarta, CNN Indonesia —

Military China conducting exercises using aircraft and ships to circle the area Taiwan on Monday (14/10).

In a statement, the Chinese government said the drills were aimed at providing a strong warning against the separatist activities of the “Taiwan Independence” forces.

“The exercise, called Joint Sword-2024B, tested the operational capabilities of the commandos,” Li Xi, a spokesman for the Chinese military’s Eastern Theater Command, was quoted as saying. AFP.

Li said the drills were conducted in the north, south and east of Taiwan Island.

“The exercises focused on the topics of patrols ready for air-sea combat, blockades at ports and important areas. They also used attacks on sea and land targets, and the joint pursuit of overall superiority,” Li said.

Responding to China’s military drills, Taiwan said the actions were “irresponsible and provocative”. Taiwan also said it sent “appropriate forces” to respond to the drills.

“Despite the threats of the enemy, all the country’s officers and soldiers are ready. We are determined and confident to ensure the security of national defense,” said a statement from Taiwan’s Ministry of Defense.

Taiwan’s Ministry of Defense noted that 25 military aircraft and seven naval aircraft were found around its territory in the 26 hours to 8 a.m. local time.

The military drills held by China came days after US Secretary of State Antony Blinken warned Beijing not to take action in response to a speech by Taiwan President Lai Ching Te, some time ago.

In that speech, President Lai emphasized that he would continue to fight for Taiwan’s sovereignty. He also said that he would continue to reject additions, and said that Beijing and Taipei will not “soft on each other”.

(dna/block)