The Chinese military practiced striking key ports and energy sites in a "live-fire" drill Wednesday, part of their exercises focused on Taiwan, a democratic island that China claims as part of its territory. China dubbed their drills "Strait Thunder-2025A," which were conducted in the central and southern parts of the Taiwan Strait, a vital shipping lane for the world.
According to the Chinese military, they conducted "long-range live-fire drills" and practiced hitting "simulated targets" of key ports and energy facilities during the exercises. These drills are intended to test the capabilities of troops in areas such as blockade, control, and precision strikes on key targets, according to Senior Colonel Shi Yi, spokesman for the Eastern Theater Command of the Chinese military.
The United States condemned China's moves and called them "intimidation tactics," following statements by Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te who called China a "foreign hostile force." The maneuvers came after Lai's statements that raised tensions between Taiwan and China. The United States stands by Taiwan and recognizes the importance of protecting it from China's aggressive moves.
On Tuesday, China sent warships, aircraft, and coast guard vessels around Taiwan as part of a Rapid Response Exercise. Taiwan's Defense Ministry said China's military drills were ongoing but did not provide detailed information about the activity. As China's presence in the region increases, Taiwan is stepping up its efforts to maintain its sovereignty.
The tension between China and Taiwan has a long history, dating back to 1949 when nationalists were defeated by the Kuomintang and fled to Taiwan. To this day, China refers to Taiwan as part of its country, but this is not accepted by Taiwanese leaders who believe they are an independent country.
