China Defends Military Exercises Around Taiwan, Warns of Escalating Countermeasures

The Ministry of National Defense in China stated on Friday that the ongoing military exercises conducted by the People's Liberation Army (PLA) around Taiwan are specifically targeting "Taiwan independence" forces and external interference. The ministry spokesperson, Senior Colonel Wu Qian, emphasized that these exercises are "completely reasonable, legal, legitimate and necessary."

These remarks were made in response to statements from United States military officials who expressed concerns that the PLA exercises were escalating tensions in the Taiwan Strait. The PLA Eastern Theater Command had announced a two-day joint military exercise on Thursday morning, taking place in the Taiwan Strait and surrounding areas, including the islands of Jinmen, Matsu, Wuqiu and Dongyin.

Colonel Wu clarified that the drills are intended to deter "Taiwan independence" forces and discourage external interference. He accused the leader of Taiwan of challenging the one-China principle since taking office, promoting the "two-state theory" and seeking independence through force with the support of external forces. This, according to Wu, is putting Taiwan's people in a dangerous situation of war and peril.

He warned that Taiwan is an integral part of China and the resolution of the Taiwan question should be decided by the Chinese people. The PLA, he stated, is committed to defending national sovereignty and territorial integrity through practical actions.

Colonel Wu concluded by issuing a stern warning, stating that any provocation of "Taiwan independence" will be met with escalating countermeasures until the complete reunification of China is achieved.