TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The People's Liberation Army Eastern Theater Command (中國人民解放軍東部戰區) announced early Thursday (May 23) that it will conduct "Joint Sword-2024A" military exercises around Taiwan from May 23 to 24.
Eastern Theater Command spokesperson Li Xi (李熹) stated that the drills aim to practice joint sea and air readiness patrols, comprehensive battlefield control, and precision strikes on critical targets. This move comes as a stern warning and punishment against Taiwan's independence forces and external interference.
Li Xi emphasized that the military exercises serve as a severe warning and forceful punishment for the Taiwan independence movement and any external forces meddling in the region. The drills will cover areas including the Taiwan Strait, and the surroundings of Taiwan's northern, southern, eastern regions, as well as the islands of Kinmen (金門島), Matsu (馬祖島), Wuqiu (烏丘嶼), and Dongyin (東引島).
This extensive range highlights the comprehensive nature of the exercises, underscoring the gravity of the PLA's message.
The announcement follows remarks made by Chen Binhua, a spokesperson for China'sTaiwan Affairs Office (TAO, 國台辦), on the evening of May 21.
Chen criticized President Lai Ching-te's inaugural speech as a "Taiwan independence manifesto" and a severe provocation against the one-China principle.
He warned that the actions of Taiwan's leaders, promoting an "anti-China" sentiment and seeking independence through military means, would bring profound disaster to the island.
The military exercises and the sharp statements from both sides underscore the escalating tensions between China and Taiwan. As the "Joint Sword-2024A" drills proceed, the international community watches closely, concerned about the potential for increased conflict in the region.