Chinese military begins extensive drills around Taiwan

The Chinese People’s Liberation Army began the drills on Thursday, which state media described as a “punishment” for Taiwan electing a new president, Lai Ching-te. The Chinese Foreign Ministry on Thursday said that any “separatist” activity in Taiwan would garner pushback from the Chinese government.

What do these military drills entail? According to Chinese state media, the drills involve joint operations between the Chinese military’s sea and air forces. They will focus on practicing combat readiness patrols, precision strikes, and comprehensive battlefield control. Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defense said Thursday that it stands ready to defend itself against Chinese aggression. It added that it does not seek conflict but won’t shy away from fighting with Beijing.

So, this is all in response to the election of Lai Ching-te? Chinese state media reported that the attacks served as a punishment for activities conducted by those seeking Taiwanese independence. President Lai Ching-te celebrated his election earlier this week, issuing a statement on social media thanking the Taiwanese people for bestowing the responsibility of the office on him. Since then, Canada, Japan, the United States, and others have sent delegations and messages to Taiwan congratulating him on his new position.