Taiwan condemns Chinese military drills, vows to maintain vigilance amid rising tensions

The MND condemned the PLA's announcement of “Combined Sword-2024A” military exercises in the sea and airspace around Taiwan. The ministry described these actions as undermining regional stability and immediately dispatched navy, air and ground forces to respond, emphasizing the defense of Taiwan's sovereignty and democracy.

Highlighting China's continued military oppression, the MND underlined the disruption it has caused to global peace and stability. It described Beijing's practices as reflecting its “supremacist nature” and reiterated Taiwan's readiness to defend itself while expressing its commitment to peace, Focus Taiwan reported.

Emphasizing preparedness, the MND reiterated its principle of “preparing for war, not seeking war, responding to war, and not avoiding war”. It assured the public of the capability, determination and confidence of the armed forces in safeguarding national security.

Calling for unity, the ministry urged citizens to provide unwavering support and solidarity during this tense time across the Taiwan Strait. It stressed the importance of cooperation between the military and civilians to jointly defend the Taiwanese homeland.

In response to rising tensions, the MND announced tighter surveillance of Chinese military activities around Taiwan. The Army has stepped up regional joint defense and security of military bases, while air defense and coastal missile units are on high alert.

Focus Taiwan also pointed out that the MND's statements reflect Taiwan's firm stance towards increasing pressure from the PLA, and reaffirm its commitment to safeguarding its sovereignty and ensuring peace and stability in the region.

The Eastern Theater Command of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) launched joint military exercises around Taiwan at 7:45 am (local time) on Thursday, Chinese state media reported.

The Chinese military is conducting exercises in the Taiwan Strait, north, south and east of Taiwan Island, and in areas around Kinmen, Matsu, Wuqiu and Dongyin islands.

Theater command spokesman Li Xi said the military services of the theater command, including the army, navy, air force and rocket forces, are being mobilized to hold the joint exercise, codenamed Combined Swords-2024A, which will run from Thursday to Friday.

Lee said the drills focused on comprehensive battlefield control, joint sea-air combat readiness patrols, and joint precision strikes on key targets. He further said the drills included patrols by ships and aircraft in the area around Taiwan and integrated operations inside and outside the island chain to test the combined actual combat capabilities of forces under command.

According to Xinhua news agency, the spokesperson stressed that the exercise also serves as a stern punishment for the separatist acts of “Taiwan independence” forces and a stern warning against interference and provocation by outside forces.