China expands major military drills around Taiwan – DW – 12/11/2024
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Taiwan's military said 53 Chinese aircraft and 19 vessels had been detected near the island as Beijing conducts its largest maritime exercises in decades. Taipei denounced Beijing as a "troublemaker."

Summary

China has launched its largest military drills in decades around Taiwan, deploying 53 aircraft, 19 ships, and 90 naval vessels near the island in two days.

Taiwan’s Defense Ministry reported that 23 Chinese aircraft entered its air defense identification zone (ADIZ) and condemned Beijing’s actions as “irrational” and destabilizing.

The drills follow Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te’s U.S. visits and are seen as a move to assert control over the first island chain ahead of Trump’s inauguration.

The U.S. vowed continued support for Taiwan’s self-defense amid rising tensions.