China has started big military exercises. These drills are like surrounding Taiwan. This shows China's power. It is a warning against Taiwan becoming independent. The exercises began on Monday. They include blocking Taiwan's ports. There is also naval target practice. This makes the region more tense.
The Chinese army, called the PLA, started these drills. They announced them and then began. They are using many military vehicles. These include destroyers, jets, and missiles. China said the drills are a warning. They are for people who want Taiwan's independence. They are also for outside forces like the US.
These actions come after the US approved an $11 billion arms sale to Taiwan. China sees this as a challenge. Taiwan wants to improve its defense. Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te also promised to make the military stronger. Some US intelligence says China wants to invade Taiwan by 2027.
The drills are very large. Missiles have been launched. Many Chinese planes and ships are near Taiwan. On Tuesday, 70 planes and 11 ships were seen. In the last 24 hours, 130 aircraft and 28 ships were recorded. Four large ships were seen west of Taiwan. This might mean they are planning sea attacks.
China believes Taiwan is part of its country. They want to control Taiwan. They might use force. The military drills show this goal. China's foreign ministry said, "Any schemes to stop China's reunification will fail." This shows China's strong position.
These drills are important. They affect Taiwan's safety. They also affect the Indo-Pacific region. Many people worry about a war in the Taiwan Strait. This is an important sea route. The US supports Taiwan. However, its commitment is not always clear. Japan is also worried. These drills show China wants Taiwan to accept "peaceful reunification." They also want to stop other countries from helping Taiwan.