As China’s claims over the self-governing island have expanded in recent years, so too have its military exercises off the coast of Taiwan.
Late on Monday, Beijing declared that a four-hour practice closure will begin at 9:00 local time (01:00 GMT) on Tuesday in the vicinity of Niushan, an island located 105 kilometers (66 miles) from Taiwan.
Cho Jung-tai, the premier of Taiwan, stated on Tuesday that China shouldn’t be carrying out these drills since they endanger regional stability.
“They should not be frequent and near Taiwan, regardless of how big the drill is,” he told reporters. “This will simply lead to needless stress.
Despite Taipei’s claim that the exercises are routine, many think that given their close proximity to Taiwan, China is probably sending a message.
The drills are also a part of a larger campaign in which Chinese aircraft and ships have frequently entered Taiwanese airspace and territory, a tactic known as “grey zone warfare” meant to normalize the incursions and gradually erode Taiwan’s power.
Taiwan’s allies, particularly the United States, have increased their maneuvers in tandem with the Chinese drills.
The US Pacific Fleet was the only foreign navy to frequently cross the Taiwan Strait, which divides the two countries, for many years.
