China completes "Strait Thunder-2025A" military exercises around Taiwan

China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA) has successfully completed the large-scale military maneuvers “Strait Thunder-2025A” around Taiwan, according to Shi Yi, the spokesperson for the Eastern Combat Command Zone of the PLA.

In a statement published on WeChat, Shi Yi announced that the PLA Eastern Combat Command had accomplished all objectives set for the joint exercises, Caliber.Az reports via Russian media.

He emphasized that the drills were a comprehensive test of the joint combat capabilities of the PLA forces operating around Taiwan.

The spokesperson further stated that the Eastern Combat Command Zone remains on high alert, continuously strengthening military training and maintaining its resolve to eliminate separatist activities led by those advocating for Taiwan’s independence.

On April 1 and 2, the PLA carried out extensive combat exercises around Taiwan, demonstrating its military preparedness and operational reach. As part of the drills, Chinese forces executed combat patrols in the waters near Taiwan, practiced gaining comprehensive control of the island, and simulated blocking key routes and strategic areas.

The exercises included long-range precision strikes on simulated targets, which involved seaports and critical energy infrastructure. Additionally, in a significant show of force, the PLA deployed the aircraft carrier Shandong to conduct operations east of the island.

Taiwan has been governed independently since 1949, when Chiang Kai-shek’s Kuomintang forces retreated to the island following their defeat in the Chinese Civil War. Despite operating under its own administration, Taiwan continues to use the flag and certain attributes of the former Republic of China, which existed on the mainland before the Communist Party assumed control.

Beijing considers Taiwan an integral part of China, a stance that is officially recognized by most countries worldwide. However, tensions between the Chinese central government and Taipei have intensified in recent years, with Beijing viewing any moves toward independence as a direct challenge to its sovereignty.

By Tamilla Hasanova