Taipei, Apr 02 (V7N) – Massive warships cut through the turbulent waves, while state-of-the-art fighter jets roar through the sky—China’s sudden military preparations around Taiwan suggest an escalating show of force.

On Tuesday (April 1), the region around the Taiwan Strait witnessed an intense military display, with China conducting large-scale exercises from land, sea, and air. The Eastern Theater Command of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) is leading these drills, which involve warships, warplanes, conventional missile units, and long-range missile systems.

Chinese officials have described the exercises as a warning to pro-independence forces in Taiwan. Lieutenant Commander Peng Wenqiang of the Chinese Navy stated,
"Taiwan independence is futile. Relying on external forces will not help. We are on the highest alert, conducting real war-situation exercises with soldiers ready for combat. We will take strict action against separatist forces."

Taiwan, however, is not backing down. Officials in Taipei have denounced China’s actions as imperialistic and provocative. In response, Taiwan's military has mobilized fighter jets and missile defense systems to counter any potential threat.

Shieh Jih-sheng, a senior intelligence officer at Taiwan’s Ministry of Defense, remarked,
"This is just a tactic to keep us under pressure. We are closely monitoring their activities. There has been no actual attack yet, but we will make decisions based on real developments."

China has long asserted its territorial claim over Taiwan, which lies at a strategic point in global trade routes. In recent years, Beijing has significantly ramped up its military presence in the region, increasing concerns over a potential conflict.

With tensions rising, the world is closely watching whether this military standoff will escalate into a direct confrontation.

END/MSS/AJ