TAIPEI (TVBS News) — John Kirby, the U.S. National Security Advisor for Strategic Communications, reaffirmed America's support for Taiwan's democracy on Thursday (Jan. 4), emphasizing the importance of non-interference by external parties in Taiwan's democratic process.
This statement comes in the wake of an incident reported on Wednesday by Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense (MND). The MND reported the detection of three balloons, believed to be from China, crossing the median line of the Taiwan Strait on Jan. 3.
Following the disappearance of one of these balloons over central Taiwan, the MND observed six incursions by Chinese aircraft and six by vessels in the Taiwan Strait's vicinity. The military said it will respond appropriately to any potential hazards posed by such activities, in accordance with existing regulations.
While Kirby did not confirm the specifics of the balloon reports, he reiterated the U.S.'s commitment to supporting Taiwan's democratic processes, including the upcoming elections.
He stressed that the U.S. would closely monitor any attempts by external forces to interfere with Taiwan's elections, underscoring the importance of maintaining the integrity of Taiwan's democratic process.