China Expands Military Drills Near Taiwan, Increases Tensions

Chinese military activity near Taiwan has intensified, with Taiwan's defence ministry reporting a significant influx of Chinese ships and aircraft into its air defence identification zone. The Taiwanese government has responded by deploying military assets and monitoring the situation closely. Chinese officials have framed these drills as necessary actions to safeguard national sovereignty in response to alleged foreign support for Taiwan's independence. Taiwanese Defence Minister Wellington Koo characterized China as a 'troublemaker' threatening regional stability, while President William Lai Ching-te has reinforced measures against perceived Chinese subversion. The recent military maneuvers coincide with rising tensions over U.S. policy changes regarding Taiwan, further complicating the geopolitical landscape in the region.