China Conducts Military Drills Around Taiwan

China has reiterated its stance of not renouncing the use of force over Taiwan, framing this as a response to what it describes as 'separatist acts' and foreign interference, particularly from the United States. Spokesperson Chen Binhua emphasized that while China seeks peaceful reunification, it will not hesitate to act against a minority of Taiwanese separatists. Recent military drills, involving over 150 aircraft and naval vessels, were conducted as a stark warning following Taiwan President Lai Ching-te's speech, which China deemed provocative. Taiwan's government, rejecting Beijing's sovereignty claims, insists that their future is a matter for the Taiwanese people alone. In turn, Taiwan's officials noted that China's aggressive posturing has only garnered increased international support for Taiwan, especially from the U.S. The situation remains tense, with calls for restraint coming from the European Union and Japan amidst China's military enhancements aimed at achieving its reunification goals by 2049.