China Conducts Large-Scale Military Activity Near Taiwan After Election?

Taipei, January 17, 2024: Taiwan’s defense ministry reported on Wednesday evening the detection of 18 Chinese air force planes engaged in “joint combat readiness patrols” with Chinese warships around Taiwan. This marked the first significant post-election military activity.

China, asserting Taiwan as its own territory, has consistently dispatched warplanes and warships near the island over the past four years, despite resistance from the Taipei government.

The recent election in Taiwan saw the victory of Lai Ching-te from the ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) as the next president, a move Beijing has criticized, labeling Lai as a dangerous separatist.

According to Taiwan’s defense ministry, starting around 7:50 pm (1150 GMT) on Wednesday, 18 aircraft, including Su-30 fighters, were detected operating off northern and central Taiwan and to the island’s southwest. Eleven of them crossed the Taiwan Strait’s median line, collaborating with Chinese warships in conducting “joint combat readiness patrols.”

While the strait’s median line once unofficially separated the two sides, Chinese planes now routinely traverse it, with China refusing to recognize its existence.

Taiwan responded by deploying its forces for monitoring, emphasizing the region’s significance to global development and stability. The defense ministry asserted its commitment to strengthening self-defense capabilities in response to threats and regional challenges.

There was no immediate response from China’s defense ministry.

Earlier on Wednesday, China’s Taiwan Affairs Office reiterated Beijing’s stance on not renouncing the use of force to bring Taiwan under its control. This position was directed at foreign interference and a small number of separatists, according to the office. However, it also called for dispelling Taiwanese “biases” against China.

President-elect Lai, set to take office on May 20, has consistently offered talks with China, despite being rebuffed. He emphasizes maintaining peace and stability across the strait, underscoring that only the people of Taiwan can determine their future.