China has started new “punitive” military exercises around Taiwan almost immediately after the inauguration of new President Lai Chinte took place on the island.
As Reuters writes, citing the Taiwanese Ministry of Defense, China used 15 ships of its naval forces in these exercises, 16 coast guard vessels and 33 aircraft. In response, Taiwan sent troops to areas around the island and put the country's air defenses on alert.
Chinese state media reported that the Chinese army sent dozens of fighter jets with live missiles along with warships and conducted simulated strikes on “Important military installations.”
Official Beijing also condemned the inaugural speech of the newly elected president of Taiwan, in which he said that both sides of the Taiwan Strait do not obey each other. Lai Chinte also repeatedly offered to negotiate with China, but was refused in response. The Chinese Foreign Ministry called the speech of the new head of Taiwan “shameful.”
Prepared by: Nina Petrovich