Taiwan detects Chinese military activity in escalating regional tensions

Taiwan's Ministry of Defence has reported that 28 Chinese military aircraft and eight naval ships approached the island, raising concerns over escalating tensions in the region.

The armed forces detected the movements early this morning, with 27 aircraft entering Taiwan's southwestern air defence identification zone, Caliber.Az reports via Russian media.

According to Taiwan's Ministry of Defence, the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) vessels and aircraft were operating in the waters and airspace surrounding Taiwan. The Taiwanese defence authorities have been closely monitoring the situation, though there were no immediate reports of hostile actions.

The increased military activity from China comes amid rising tensions between the two sides. Taiwan has previously voiced concerns over the growing military presence of China, which views the island as a breakaway province. While the situation remains tense, Taiwan’s defence forces continue to maintain a vigilant stance, prepared to respond to any potential threats.

This latest development follows a series of similar incidents in recent months, as China continues to conduct frequent military drills around Taiwan, which it regards as part of its sovereign territory. Taiwan, however, has reaffirmed its stance on maintaining its autonomy and securing its territorial integrity.

Earlier, Taiwan's Armed Forces reported the approach of 14 Chinese military aircraft and five naval ships from the People's Liberation Army (PLA). At least 12 of these aircraft crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait, which separates the island from mainland China, entering Taiwan's northern, southwestern, and eastern air defence identification zones.

In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), Taiwan's Ministry of Defence confirmed the detection of the PLA’s movements around Taiwan. "14 PLA aircraft and five PLA Navy ships operating in the vicinity of Taiwan were detected. Twelve aircraft crossed the median line and entered Taiwan's air defence zones," the statement read.

Taiwan's defence forces were closely monitoring the situation and confirmed their readiness to respond swiftly if necessary. The heightened military activity follows a series of similar incidents, continuing to strain tensions between the two sides, as China maintains its stance on Taiwan’s sovereignty.

By Vafa Guliyeva