The United States has strongly condemned China’s recent military operations near Taiwan. It described these actions as “illegitimate” and “irresponsible,” just days before Taiwan begins its annual Han Kuang defence drills, according to the Taipei Times.

China Increases Military Activity

Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defence (MND) reported a sharp rise in Chinese military presence around the island. From Wednesday to Thursday morning, Taiwan tracked 41 Chinese military aircraft and eight naval ships near its territory. Out of these, 27 aircraft crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait. They entered the northern, central, and southwestern parts of Taiwan’s air defence identification zone (ADIZ).

In response, Taiwan quickly deployed patrol aircraft, naval vessels, and coastal missile systems to keep a close watch on these activities.

US Warns Against Escalation

A US State Department spokesperson, quoted by Taiwan’s Central News Agency, criticised China’s military movements. The official said these moves were destabilising and could raise tensions further. He stressed, “maintaining peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait is critical to global security and economic interests,” and urged China to “halt its coercive actions.”

Moreover, the US reassured its continued military, economic, and diplomatic support to Taiwan.

Chinese Rocket Also Entered Taiwan’s Airspace

Taiwan’s defence ministry also confirmed a separate incident involving a Chinese rocket. On Wednesday evening, a rocket launched from the Xichang Satellite Launch Centre in Sichuan flew through Taiwan’s southwestern ADIZ.

Even though the rocket remained outside the Earth’s atmosphere and posed no direct threat, Taiwan issued a timely warning and tracked its path using surveillance and intelligence systems, according to the MND.

Rising Pressure Ahead of Taiwan’s Defence Exercises

These recent developments highlight China’s ongoing pressure campaign against Taiwan. Analysts believe that Beijing is increasing both military and aerospace activities as Taiwan prepares for its most important defence exercises of the year.