Conflict brews as China launches military drills near Taiwan

Taiwan’s administration head, Lai Ching-te, widely regarded as a potential "trigger for war," announced this morning that the People's Liberation Army of China (PLA) has begun military exercises near Taiwan, aiming to deter the island's separatist forces.

These drills codenamed “Joint Sword 2024V,” involve blockading key ports and areas of the island. The exercises are part of a broader strategy by the PLA’s Eastern Theater Command, as confirmed by Senior Colonel Li Xi, Caliber.Az reports, citing Chinese media source CCTV.

The announcement follows Lai Ching-te’s speech on October 10, in which he presented Taiwan’s “independence” as part of a “new two-state theory,” attempting to sever ties between the island and mainland China.

In the commentary, Lai is described as a “pragmatic supporter of Taiwan independence,” but CCTV underscores that he is, in reality, a "pragmatic trigger for war."

The PLA has the strength to crush all separatist plots for Taiwan's independence. “No one should underestimate the determination, firm will, and powerful capabilities of the people’s army to defend national sovereignty and territorial integrity. The complete reunification of the motherland must and will be achieved.”

Meanwhile, in connection with the PLA exercises near Taiwan, the Taiwanese Armed Forces have deployed additional launchers of HF-2 (Xiongfeng-2) anti-ship missile systems in the port of Hualian, according to Russian media sources.

At least two mobile ground units with four missiles each were spotted at the port. At the same time, the launch containers were installed vertically, which may indicate that the missile systems are in a combat position and on duty.

A command and staff vehicle, a vehicle with a mobile satellite communication station and armed soldiers were also seen in the car park near them. At the same time, the port continues to operate as normal.

The range of the HF-2 anti-ship systems can be from 160 to 250 kilometres, depending on the modification.

At the same time, the United States State Department spokesman Matthew Miller has expressed concern over the Chinese army's military exercises around Taiwan.

"The United States is seriously concerned about the joint military exercises of the People's Liberation Army in the Taiwan Strait and around Taiwan," he said. 

He noted that China's actions in the region are allegedly unjustified and could lead to an escalation of relations between the PRC and Taiwan.

By Khagan Isayev