US Urges China to Halt Military Drills Around Taiwan
The United States has called on China to exercise restraint following a series of military drills around Taiwan that simulated a blockade of the island. The US Department of State issued a statement on Thursday condemning China’s aggressive actions and rhetoric, which have raised tensions in the region. State Department spokesman Tommy Pigott emphasized, “China’s military activities and rhetoric toward Taiwan and others in the region increase tensions unnecessarily.”
The US urged Beijing to cease its military pressure on Taiwan and engage in constructive dialogue instead. Pigott reiterated, “The United States supports peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait and opposes unilateral changes to the status quo, including by force or coercion.”
In recent days, China has fired missiles and deployed jets and naval vessels in a display of military might aimed at encircling Taiwan. Beijing claims the self-governed island as part of its territory and has vowed to bring it under its control. The frequency of Chinese military drills has increased, although they have not significantly disrupted daily life in Taiwan. Nonetheless, these actions have prompted strong reactions from Taiwanese officials, especially in light of China’s recent crackdowns in regions like Hong Kong.
On Thursday, Taiwanese President William Lai Ching-te reaffirmed his commitment to defending national sovereignty. He stated, “As president, my stance has always been clear: to resolutely defend national sovereignty and strengthen national defence.” Lai has proposed an increase in Taiwan’s military spending by $40 billion, though this proposal faces hurdles in the legislature, where the opposition party holds a majority.
Looking ahead to 2026, Lai described the year as critical for Taiwan, emphasizing the need for the island to prepare for potential challenges while remaining hopeful for peaceful developments. “We must make plans for the worst, but hope for the best,” he added.
US support for Taiwan has often been expressed through strong statements from lawmakers, but the country’s policy towards the island has remained ambiguous for decades. This policy does not guarantee military assistance in the event of a Chinese invasion. Recently, the US approved an $11 billion arms package for Taiwan, a move aimed at strengthening the island’s defenses.
Former US President Donald Trump commented earlier this week, asserting that he does not believe China intends to invade Taiwan in the immediate future. “I have a great relationship with [Chinese] President Xi Jinping. And he hasn’t told me anything about it,” Trump stated to reporters. He noted that naval exercises have been a routine part of China’s military strategy for years, suggesting that the current concerns might overlook this historical context.
As tensions continue to escalate, the international community watches closely, emphasizing the need for dialogue and restraint to prevent further conflict in the Taiwan Strait.
