China launched military maneuvers around Taiwan on Monday, with planes and ships to encircle the self-governed island, Beijing’s Defense Ministry announced.
The exercises, called Joint Sword 2024B, “test the joint operational capabilities of the command theater troops,” the Chinese ministry said.
In response, Taiwan said it sent “appropriate forces” to protect its territory.
The Taiwanese Ministry of Defense condemned “irrational and provocative behavior” Chinese and stated that it “sent appropriate forces to respond accordingly to protect freedom and democracy and defend the sovereignty” of Taiwan.
The maneuvers are carried out in “areas north, south and east of the island of Taiwan“said Captain Li Xi, spokesman for the Eastern Theater Command of the Chinese army.
The exercises “focus on topics such as surveillance of readiness for air and maritime combat, the blockade of ports and key areas,” as well as the “assault of sea and land targets”, indicated Li.
China has in recent years intensified its military activity around Taiwan, sending warplanes and other military aircraft, while its ships maintain a near-constant presence in the island’s waters.
Beijing has not ruled out Using force to take control of the island of democratic government. (YO)
