Taiwan: 35 Chinese aircraft and 8 ships detected around the island
China has elevated its military activity around Taiwan after the latter’s leader, Tsai Ing-wen, made unofficial visits to the United States on transit to and from visits to Central America. According to the statement of Taiwan’s Ministry of Defense, 15 out of 35 of China’s aircraft crossed air and sea lines that Taiwan considers to limit the parties‘ areas of influence, including its „Air Defense Identification Zone.“ The military activity followed the end of China’s three-day military exercise called „Joint Sword,“ which included land, air, naval, and rocket forces around Taiwan.
Since the civil war between mainland China and Taiwan, where China regards Taiwan as part of its territory, Taiwan has been de facto independent. However, China opposes Taiwan’s independence, including Taiwan’s representation in international organizations and establishing independent diplomatic ties with other countries.
