INSUBCONTINENT EXCLUSIVE:
China has significantly increased its military presence around Taiwan, raising tensions in the region
The Taiwanese Defense Ministry reported a near doubling of Chinese warships in nearby waters.This surge comes after Taiwanese President Lai
The number of Chinese warships rose from 8 to 14 within 24 hours.Additionally, seven military aircraft and four balloons were detected near
initiate combat readiness drills
near Taiwan, southern Japanese islands, and the East and South China Seas
About two-thirds of these vessels belong to the navy.China Escalates Military Presence Near Taiwan
(Photo Internet reproduction)Beijing has also established seven zones of reserved airspace east of its Fujian and Zhejiang provinces
These zones will be in effect from Monday to Wednesday.Such airspace restrictions often precede military exercises, though China has not
officially announced any drills
China, however, considers Taiwan part of its territory and opposes any formal diplomatic exchanges between Taiwan and other countries.The
United States, while not officially recognizing Taiwan, serves as its main unofficial ally and arms supplier
This support has further strained United States -China relations.Recently, United States Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin emphasized the
importance of maintaining freedom of navigation in the region
over what it considers its territorial waters
Taiwan, meanwhile, strives to maintain its de facto independence and international connections.
