China’s Military Exercise Stirs Up Tensions with Taiwan

China recently held a significant military drill near Taiwan, sparking criticism from the United States. The exercise, dubbed "Joint Sword-2024B, " involved various branches of the Chinese military. They conducted sea and air patrols, along with attacks on maritime and ground targets. This maneuver was a response to comments made by Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te, who asserted that China has no right to represent Taiwan.Taiwan, an island with about 23 million people, has its own democratic government. China, however, views it as a breakaway province. The drill was seen by Taiwan as an attempt to disrupt regional peace and pressure neighboring countries. Taiwan's military tracked the Chinese activities and responded by deploying their own aircraft and ships. The United States, which supports Taiwan's democracy, condemned China's exercises. They warned that such actions could lead to an escalation of tensions. The U. S. called on China to act with restraint and avoid undermining regional stability. Both sides continue to monitor the situation closely.