Ask Onix
Trump downplays military exercises near Taiwan
US President Donald Trump stated he is unconcerned by China's ongoing military drills around Taiwan, calling them long-standing naval exercises. The comments came during a Monday press conference, where he emphasized his strong rapport with Chinese President Xi Jinping.
China stages large-scale drills simulating blockade
Beijing launched live-fire exercises on Monday, spanning five zones surrounding Taiwan. The maneuvers, which include 10 hours of live-fire tests, simulate a blockade and involve destroyers, frigates, and fighter-bombers to test sea-air coordination. China's military framed the drills as a warning against "Taiwan independence separatist forces" and "external interference."
The exercises follow a recent US announcement of an $11 billion arms sale to Taiwan, one of the largest in history. China responded with sanctions on US defense firms and condemned the sale as a provocation.
Taiwan detects record Chinese military activity
Taiwan's defense ministry reported 130 Chinese military aircraft near the island on Tuesday, with 90 crossing the median line-a de facto border China does not recognize. The ministry also spotted over a dozen Chinese navy vessels. In response, Taiwan deployed aircraft, ships, and coastal missile systems to monitor the situation.
President Lai Ching-te criticized the drills as irresponsible, stating Taiwan would not escalate tensions but would defend its security. "We will act responsibly and not stir up disputes," he said in a social media statement.
Analysts warn of strategic messaging to US and Japan
Susan Shirk, former US Deputy Assistant Secretary of State, told the BBC the drills primarily target Washington and Tokyo, expressing Beijing's anger over US arms sales. She raised concerns about Trump's transactional approach to Taiwan, suggesting he might trade US commitments for economic concessions.
"If Trump is suggesting his rapport with Xi Jinping will influence China's Taiwan policy, he's deluding himself."
Alexander Neill, Pacific Forum adjunct fellow
Neill noted the exercises align with China's military modernization but warned against underestimating Beijing's resolve. China has repeatedly vowed to "reunify" with Taiwan, leaving force as an option.
US-Taiwan relations remain a diplomatic tightrope
The US maintains formal ties with Beijing but remains Taiwan's largest arms supplier. The recent $11 billion package includes advanced missiles and artillery. China's foreign minister, Wang Yi, condemned the sale and reaffirmed Beijing's commitment to "complete national reunification."
