Official announcements from Taiwan's government or international news agencies

China Deploys 90 Ships in Massive Military Operation Near Taiwan

Dec 13, 2024, 04:28 AM

China has conducted a significant military operation near Taiwan, deploying approximately 90 naval and coast guard vessels, marking one of the largest military maneuvers in recent years. This operation included simulations of attacks on foreign ships and blockades of maritime routes, according to Taiwanese security officials. The Chinese Defense Ministry has not officially confirmed these drills but stated that it is up to China to decide on military exercises based on its needs and the situation. The Taiwanese authorities have noted an increase in Chinese military activity, with 12 Chinese military aircraft and 14 naval vessels detected operating around Taiwan in the past 24 hours. This deployment is seen as a response to Taiwan President Lai Ching-te's recent visit to the U.S. territories of Hawaii and Guam, which has heightened tensions between China and Taiwan. Taiwan's defense ministry has initiated war-preparedness drills and is closely monitoring the situation, emphasizing the evolving threat from China since 2022.