Taiwan Reports Renewed Chinese Military Activity Near Island After Blinken's Visit to China

Taiwan Reports Renewed Chinese Military Activity Near the Island

Taiwan reported renewed Chinese military activity near the island on Saturday, with 12 aircraft crossing the sensitive median line of the Taiwan Strait. This incident occurred a day after U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken concluded his visit to China.

The United States remains Taiwan's most important international supporter and arms supplier, despite the absence of formal diplomatic ties. During his visit to China, Blinken emphasized the "critical importance" of maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait.

Taiwan, a democratically governed nation, has faced increasing military pressure from China, which views the island as its own territory. Taiwan's government firmly rejects these claims.

Taiwan's defense ministry reported that from 9:30 a.m. (0130 GMT) on Saturday, it detected 22 Chinese military aircraft, including Su-30 fighters. Of these, 12 crossed the median line to Taiwan's north and center.

The median line once served as an unofficial border between the two sides, with neither side's military crossing it. However, China's air force now regularly sends aircraft over the line, claiming it does not recognize its existence.

Taiwan's defense ministry stated that the aircraft were involved in "joint combat readiness patrols" with Chinese warships. Taiwanese aircraft and ships responded "appropriately," but further details were not provided.

China's defense ministry did not respond to calls seeking comment outside of office hours on Saturday.

While Taiwan's armed forces are well-equipped and well-trained, they are dwarfed by those of China, particularly the navy and air force, which respond almost daily to Chinese missions.

China considers Taiwan the most critical issue in its relations with the United States and has repeatedly demanded Washington end weapons sales to Taiwan.

Taiwan President-elect Lai Ching-te takes office on May 20 after winning January's election. Beijing considers him a dangerous separatist and has rebuffed his repeated calls for talks.

Lai stated on Thursday that China should have the confidence to talk to Taiwan's legally elected government. Like outgoing President Tsai Ing-wen, Lai maintains that only Taiwan's people can decide their future.