By Olawale Abaire, Warrior Editorial Fellow
China has initiated two days of military exercises around Taiwan, with its military labeling them as “strong punishment” for the self-ruled island’s perceived “separatist acts.” These exercises come just three days after the inauguration of President William Lai, who has called on China to cease threatening the island and acknowledge the existence of its democracy.
During his inaugural speech, President Lai advocated for the cessation of Beijing’s military intimidations, pledging a balanced stance of neither capitulation nor provocation. He emphasized Taiwan’s unwavering commitment to liberty and democracy, especially under the looming shadow of external threats. This commitment was reiterated during his engagements with national security personnel and naval forces.
President Lai also preferred to dialogue with Beijing to maintain Taiwan’s current status quo while avoiding conflicts that could potentially draw in key allies such as the United States, Japan, and Australia.
If you will remember vividly in late March and early April 2023, former Taiwan’s President Tsai Ing-wen visited the United States and held an in-person meeting with Speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy. However, the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) escalated its activities during Tsai’s visit to the U.S., particularly after her meeting with McCarthy. On April 8, the day after Tsai returned to Taiwan, the PLA announced and launched large-scale military exercises around the island. These exercises are more significant than China’s previous responses to Taiwan presidential transits and are reminiscent of the unprecedented PLA response to then-Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s visit to Taiwan in August 2022.
China views Taiwan as part of its national territory and considers any moves toward independence as unacceptable. The PLA frequently conducts naval and air operations around Taiwan, aiming to wear down Taiwan’s defenses and assert its control over the region. Beijing perceives Taiwan’s de facto independence as challenging its sovereignty and stability in the Taiwan Strait. The recent military exercises serve as a stern warning to separatist forces seeking independence.
China Taiwan Analysis
Taiwan’s Defense Ministry has criticized China’s “irrational provocation,” emphasizing that the island seeks peace but will not shy away from defending itself. President Lai Ching-te called for an end to China’s military intimidation and reaffirmed Taiwan’s commitment to freedom and democracy. The island’s strategic importance in global supply chains and its role as a democratic bulwark against Chinese expansionism underscore the urgency of maintaining security and stability.
Subsequently, the Nationalist Party (KMT), generally seen as pro-China, has condemned Beijing’s actions. The KMT urges both sides of the Taiwan Strait to exercise restraint, avoid unnecessary maneuvers, and preserve the results of peace and development between them. However, tensions persist, with protests outside Taiwan’s legislature related to military budgets and key appointments.
The People’s Liberation Army’s Eastern Theater Command has clarified that the land, navy, and air exercises around Taiwan aim to test the capabilities of PLA units. These exercises evaluate joint strike abilities, target precision, and battlefield control. The PLA perceives them as a powerful response to separatist forces seeking independence.
In summary, the situation remains tense as China flexes its military muscle around Taiwan, and Taiwan stands firm in defending its democratic values and sovereignty. The international community closely monitors the delicate balance between peace and conflict in the Taiwan Strait.
