TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Taiwan's Minister of National Defense, Wellington Koo (顧立雄), clarified on Wednesday (Oct. 23) that the Ministry of National Defense (國防部) has not elevated its overall combat readiness. The Guandu Area Command (關指部) has a mission to guard the Tamsui River, so the command's leader deemed it necessary to recall nearby troops due to operational needs.
Koo's remarks came after reports indicated that China's "Joint Sword-2024B" military drills commenced at 5 a.m. on Oct. 14, however, the Guandu Area Command's 2nd Mechanized Infantry Brigade only recalled its personnel around 10 a.m. Meanwhile, the 6th Army Command confirmed that the recall followed regulations and that plans to compensate for the leave had been completed.
Koo emphasized that exercises like "Joint Sword" differ significantly from an actual blockade. He noted the Taiwan Strait's maritime transport accounts for about one-fifth of global trade, valued at US$2.45 trillion. Koo stated that any blockade by the Chinese military, as defined by international law, would have severe implications, and the international community would not stand by.
When asked if Taiwan expects U.S. intervention, Koo declined to address hypothetical scenarios. He highlighted the constant cyber threats from Chinese military hackers targeting Taiwan's civilian and military infrastructure. Koo urged regional cooperation to enhance cybersecurity defenses, emphasizing the need for collective efforts to bolster security measures.