China's army, called the PLA, started big military exercises on Monday. These drills are happening all around Taiwan. Many people think this shows China wants to control Taiwan. Taiwan is an island that governs itself. The exercises were named "Justice Mission 2025." They began with little warning. The goal is to block Taiwan's sea and air routes. This makes tensions in the region higher.
The drills are now in their second day. The PLA is using many military tools. They have many fighter jets, ships, and long-range missiles. Taiwan's defence ministry saw many warplanes. They counted 130 planes in one day. They also saw 28 ships, including some for landing troops. The exercises test how well the PLA can attack together. They also practice stopping ships and preventing foreign help for Taiwan. China said these drills are a warning. They are warning Taiwan's leaders who want independence. They also warn countries that might interfere.
The timing of these drills is important. The US recently agreed to sell $11 billion in weapons to Taiwan. The US has promised to help Taiwan defend itself. Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te also spoke about better military power. These events seem to have made China react strongly. Also, Japan's Prime Minister said Japan might help if China attacks Taiwan. This has made China show it is ready to act against outside help.
The exercises are very large. China launched missiles from its mainland. Some missiles landed near Taiwan's waters. This was a clear act of challenge. Chinese ships were seen in Taiwan's restricted waters. Ships for landing troops were also near the island. Colonel Shi Yi, a PLA spokesperson, said the drills warn against independence and outside interference. A Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson said plans to stop China's reunification will fail.
These drills are part of a bigger plan. China's leader, Xi Jinping, wants to be able to invade Taiwan by 2027. Taiwan is now on high alert. The US, a key partner for Taiwan, is watching closely. The PLA is sending a clear message to the US and its allies. China wants to stop any support for Taiwan's independence. China's defence ministry told other countries to stop trying to use Taiwan to contain China. These drills are a way for China to scare Taiwan. They also show China's growing power in the Indo-Pacific.