Taiwan reports renewed Chinese military activity in its vicinity

Taiwan has seen renewed Chinese military activity in its vicinity today. Taiwan’s Ministry of Defense said 12 Chinese aircraft had crossed the median line dividing the Taiwan Strait, which Taipei considers an unofficial border between the two countries. The news comes a day after US Secretary of State Antony Blinken ended his visit to China, Reuters reported.

The United States is the most important international supporter and supplier of arms to Taiwan. During his visit to China, Blinken pointed out the “fundamental importance” of maintaining peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait region.

Taiwan’s Ministry of Defense said today that as of 09:30 (03:30 CEST), it had recorded 22 Chinese military aircraft, including Su-30 fighter jets, 12 of which had crossed the median line dividing the Taiwan Strait. It added that the aircraft participated in joint patrols with Chinese warships and that Taiwan’s air force and navy responded appropriately to the patrols. However, it did not provide details about this reaction.

China considers Taiwan one of its provinces and threatens it with military intervention if it declares independence. Nevertheless, the island has operated de facto independently since 1949, with its own government and democratic establishment, while China continues to be ruled by one party. Only a small group of countries recognize Taiwan’s independence, but many others maintain economic, security or diplomatic relations with the island.