CHINA has launched terrifying new military drills around Taiwan with Beijing threatening to “annihilate” its neighbour amid escalating war fears.
Xi Jinping’s army, navy and air force have all been deployed for massive live-fire exercises simulating the seizure and blockade of Taiwan in the latest warning shot to “separatist forces”.
China has shared a video of a warship firing a weapon during drills east of TaiwanCredit: Reuters
A Taiwan Air Force Mirage 2000 fighter jet takes off at Hsinchu Air Base after reports of the drills were announcedCredit: AFP
China’s Eastern Theater Command of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army released a map showing how they have encircled TaiwanCredit: Shutterstock Editorial
The drills are taking place just days after the US announced the sale of one of its largest weapons packages to Taiwan worth an estimated £8.2bn.
China fiercely protested the sale and hit out at Washington – close allies of Taiwan – for aiding their enemies.
They have since declared exercises, dubbed “Justice Mission 2025”, around Taiwan in the latest invasion threat.
Officials from the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) claim to have created a “shield of justice” around Taiwan with the drills.
They released a map showing five blockades – made up of PLA personnel – completely surrounding Taiwan.
Drills will go on until Tuesday as Beijing completes its “multi-dimensional deterrence” training, military officials said.
Shi Yi, a spokesperson for the Eastern Theater Command, said the activities will focus on “training for maritime and aerial combat readiness patrols, gaining integrated control and sealing off key ports and areas.”
The drills serve “as a serious warning to Taiwan Independence separatist forces and external interference forces”, he added.
A chilling follow-up statement read: “All those plotting independence will be annihilated upon encountering the shield!”
In response, Taiwan sent up fighter jets to protect their air space and monitor Beijing’s movements as they continue to move closer to the self-governing island.
Military leaders also scrambled together plans for their troops to take part in war rehearsals to get them prepared to repel any looming attack.
Fears also grew that the package could plunge the region into serious instability.
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi even suggested his own military could get involved if China were to attack the self-governed island.
A Taiwanese woman working in a noodle store watches a news report on China’s ‘Justice Mission 2025’ military drillsCredit: Reuters
Eze Chidiebere Paul
I'm dedicated to creating high-quality content that informs, inspires, and delights. If you have any questions or suggestions, don't hesitate to get in touch. Happy reading!
