China conducted large-scale military exercises around Taiwan on Tuesday, describing them as a "severe warning" against separatist activities and a demonstration of its commitment to national unity. The drills, involving air, sea, and rocket forces, were carried out by the People’s Liberation Army’s Eastern Theater Command.

Shi Yi, a spokesperson for the command, stated that the operations were intended as a "severe warning and forceful containment against Taiwan independence." Meanwhile, China’s Coast Guard referred to its exercises in the region as a "law enforcement patrol" around Taiwan.

Taiwan Responds to Military Maneuvers

Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defense reported tracking 19 Chinese naval vessels in the area, including the aircraft carrier Shandong, which entered Taiwan’s defense zone. In response, Taiwan deployed its own warships and activated missile defense systems to monitor the situation closely.

The government in Taipei maintains that the island is a self-governing democratic state, despite Beijing’s claim that Taiwan is part of Chinese territory. Beijing has repeatedly stated that it has not ruled out the use of force to bring Taiwan under its control.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun reiterated Beijing’s stance, saying that Taiwan’s “stubborn persistence with the Taiwan independence stance” is “doomed to fail.”

Escalating Rhetoric Against Taiwan’s President

The drills were also aimed as a direct warning to Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te, whom Beijing has labeled a "separatist." A video circulated on Chinese social media depicted Lai as a green cartoon bug with the phrase: "Parasite courting ultimate destruction."

Taiwan’s Defense Minister Wellington Koo criticized China’s rhetoric, calling it "provocative" and counterproductive to peace. Last month, President Lai accused Beijing of attempting to "absorb" Taiwan and undermine its de facto independence. China dismissed the accusations, asserting that "nothing will change the inevitable reunification of Taiwan with the motherland."

Continued Military Pressure From Beijing

Taiwan’s Presidential Office condemned China’s "escalatory behavior" and urged Beijing to stop its military provocations immediately.

"Solely displaying military force is not something that should be expected from modern, progressive nations," Taiwan Premier Cho Jung-tai said.

The latest drills follow months of rising tensions, with China routinely sending military planes and ships toward Taiwan. Just two weeks ago, Beijing launched a large-scale military exercise, deploying a significant number of drones and naval vessels near the island.

Taiwan's government has reaffirmed its right to self-defense and remains committed to maintaining regional stability despite increasing military pressure from China.