Beijing: The Chinese military has initiated drills near Taiwan as a "stern warning" against what it perceives as collaboration between "separatists and foreign forces." This move follows the visit of Taiwan's Vice President William Lai to Paraguay, which included stops in San Francisco and New York City, indicating the military's concern over perceived international support for Taiwan's independence.

China's Eastern Theater Command spokesperson, Shi Yi, stated that the exercises aimed to assess the coordination of naval and aerial units and their capacity to control air and sea spaces. The exercises were designed to test actual combat capabilities and send a warning regarding provocations from pro-Taiwan independence factions and foreign actors.

China's state media, CCTV, reported the involvement of missile-equipped boats and fighter jets, simulating the encirclement of Taiwan. Taiwan's defense ministry confirmed that 42 Chinese military aircraft were detected, with 26 crossing the unofficial Taiwan Strait midline boundary. The Taiwanese forces promptly responded by deploying aircraft, vessels, and land-based missile systems.

Taiwan's defense ministry condemned the exercises as irrational and provocative, emphasizing its readiness to protect national security. The ministry shared a video on Facebook to highlight previous military drills and portray the Chinese exercises as emblematic of a militaristic stance.

Taiwan and China split in 1949 following a civil war, with China considering Taiwan a part of its territory. The self-ruled island, however, has maintained its independence and democratic governance. China has frequently stated its intent to reclaim Taiwan, even by force if necessary.

This display of military exercises serves as a reminder of the ongoing tensions between China and Taiwan, especially as Taiwan's international engagement attracts Beijing's scrutiny. Similar military drills have been conducted in response to foreign officials' visits to Taiwan, reflecting the sensitivity of the situation.