The United States expresses worry - China penalizes Taiwan through military exercises.
The "Economist" magazine from the UK branded the Taiwan Strait as the 'most perilous place' in the world. The Chinese military frequently crosses the unofficial boundary, which is known as the "middle line," separating Taiwan and China.
This waterway is crucial for global trade, as approximately half of all container ships utilize this route. If tensions were to escalate, the consequences could impact Europe.
The multiday military exercise, involving the army, navy, air force, and missile forces, which started on Thursday, doesn't only cover the Taiwan Strait. China has also announced activities in the surrounding areas, including the northern, southern, and eastern regions of the island and around Taiwan's outlying isles.
Chinese colonel discusses "retribution"
On the state-controlled television network, CCTV, Chinese naval colonel Li Xi mentioned "severe disciplinary measures" and "retribution" aimed at Taiwan's "separatism."
China views Taiwan as a rogue province. The new president of the island nation, Lai Ching-te, who assumed office recently, is labeled a "harmful separatist" by the People's Republic.
Chinese military analyst Zhang Chi revealed on television that China is rehearsing a blockade of Taiwan. The troops are practicing to halt energy imports, inhibit Taiwan's politicians' escape routes abroad, and hinder support from the US and other allies.
Taiwan's Deputy Premier Po Horng-huei said that China is using the exercise to emphasize its command over the region. Unlike a massive exercise in August 2022, China did not designate any restricted areas for ships and aircraft this time, according to a US Indo-Pacific Command representative named Stephen Sklenka. The actions of the People's Republic raise concerns.
The strained situation in the Taiwan Strait is affecting German politics. Last week, the naval frigate "Baden-Württemberg" and the supply ship "Frankfurt am Main" left for a global voyage. It's unknown whether they'll navigate through the Taiwan Strait on their way to Singapore.
Defense Minister Boris Pistorius (SPD) supports passing through the region. "We require a rule-based system rather than a rule of force," he argued a year ago concerning China's provocations. The Green Party's Foreign Minister, Annalena Baerbock (Greens), who is receptive to a transit, has not made a conclusive statement yet.
Read also:
- BVB trails 1-0 against Paris, with Füllkrug leading them towards the final.
- Munich Drama: Late Real Penalty Leaves Bayern Shocked
- Lars is capable of leading BVB, according to many.
- Subsequent torrential rainfall leads to 48 fatalities due to partial highway collapse in China.
Source: symclub.org
