Chinese military begins drill around Taiwan, 1st since Lai's presidential inauguration

By Alperen Aktas

ISTANBUL (AA) - The Chinese People's Liberation Army's Eastern Theater Command began Thursday a joint military drill around Taiwan, for the first time since William Lai Ching-te was inaugurated as the island nation's president this week.

The drill encompasses the Taiwan Strait, as well as the northern, southern, and eastern regions of the Taiwan Island, along with surrounding areas, including Kinmen, Matsu, Wuqiu, and Dongyin islands.

Li Xi, the spokesman for the theater command, said the army, navy, air force, and rocket force are teaming up for joint drills called Joint Sword-2024A from Thursday to Friday.

Li said the military drills served as a "strong punishment" for the separatist acts of "Taiwan independence" forces and a stern "warning" against the interference and provocation by "external forces."

Meanwhile, Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense reported that one aircraft, eight vessels, and four vessels belonging to China and operating around Taiwan were detected.

"The aircraft entered Taiwan's southwest and southeast of air defense identification zone. ROC (Republic of China) Armed Forces have monitored the situation and responded accordingly," the ministry wrote on X, referring to the Taiwanese military.

The Taiwanese ministry condemned the drill announcement of the Joint Li Chien-2024A, saying that it is "jeopardizing regional peace and stability."

"We stand ready with firm will and restraint. We seek no conflicts, but we will not shy away from one," the ministry added. "We have the confidence to safeguard our national security."