Taiwan Monitors China’s Moves but Aims to Avoid Provoking Tensions

In response to China’s recent military exercises, which encircled Taiwan and nearby islands, Taiwan’s Defense Ministry announced that it will not escalate tensions while keeping a close watch on China’s movements

In response to China’s recent military exercises, which encircled Taiwan and nearby islands, Taiwan’s Defense Ministry announced that it will not escalate tensions while keeping a close watch on China’s movements. The drills, seen as a warning against Taiwanese independence, involved multiple branches of China’s military, including its navy, air force, and missile units. Beijing framed the exercises as a response to Taiwan’s refusal to recognize itself as part of the People’s Republic of China. Taiwan’s Defense Ministry condemned the drills, stating they jeopardize security in the Taiwan Strait and harm cross-strait relations. The drills are viewed as a show of force against Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te, who has maintained his Democratic Progressive Party’s stance of rejecting Beijing’s claims. Lai took office in May and continues to support Taiwan’s self-governance. Taiwan’s military remains alert despite the rising tensions, especially in its outlying islands.

However, it reiterated that it will not provoke further conflict unless necessary. Beijing, in turn, issued a stern warning, declaring that Taiwan’s pursuit of independence is a “dead end” and that unification is inevitable. Captain Li Xi of China’s Eastern Theater Command stated that these exercises are a “major warning,” demonstrating China’s commitment to safeguarding its national sovereignty. The historical tension between China and Taiwan traces back to 1949 when the Nationalist government retreated to Taiwan after being defeated by the Communists in mainland China. Although Taiwan is a self-governing democracy, it has never formally declared independence. Taiwan remains committed to its self-defense while striving to prevent unnecessary escalation amid increasing pressure from Beijing.