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| Image Credit: Google |
Chinese warships and aircraft continued
to operate around Taiwan on Tuesday, the island's defense ministry reported,
following the end of China's three-day military exercises. The exercises, which
simulated targeted strikes and an aerial blockade of the island, were in
response to Taiwan's President Tsai Ing-wen's meeting with US House Speaker
Kevin McCarthy, which China warned would result in retaliatory measures. Taiwan
detected a record 232 air sorties during the exercises, with 54 planes crossing
into Taiwan's southwestern defense identification zone (ADIZ) on Monday.
President Tsai condemned the drills, calling them a source of instability in
the region, and reiterated Taiwan's commitment to defending its sovereignty.
China's military activity near Taiwan has increased in recent months, with Beijing
claiming Taiwan as part of its territory. The United States has expressed
concern over China's military aggression, and has increased its support of
Taiwan, including the sale of military hardware. In response to China's
military exercises, the United States sent the USS Milius guided-missile
destroyer through contested parts of the South China Sea, upholding the freedom
of navigation and lawful uses of the sea. China has criticized the US's support
of Taiwan, claiming it infringes on its territorial sovereignty.
The situation in the Taiwan Strait is a major point of contention between China and the United States. China has increased its military presence around Taiwan and conducted regular military exercises, while the United States has increased its support of Taiwan through arms sales and political engagement. The United States has reiterated its commitment to defend Taiwan in case of attack, while China has warned against foreign interference in what it sees as a domestic issue. The situation remains tense, and any escalation of military activity could have serious consequences for regional stability. (Courtesy: AFP and Dawn.pk)
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