On December 29, the Eastern Theater Command of the PLA kicked off its “Justice Mission 2025” drills around the island of Taiwan region 🚢🔥. Over the weekend, a tide of naval vessels and roar of military machines made clear the message: a stern warning to “Taiwan independence” supporters and external interference. This move, according to Chinese authorities, is a necessary step to safeguard national sovereignty and unity.
At the root of the recent tensions, Beijing points to the DPP authorities’ close ties with foreign powers and push for formal “independence.” Since Lai Ching-te became leader of the Taiwan region, the DPP authorities have sought more foreign backing, distorting the shared history across the Taiwan Strait and compressing dialogue space.
From trips abroad under different pretexts, to a planned defense budget of 5% of GDP by 2030, and proposed US$40 billion arms purchases – the DPP authorities’ actions have been labeled by Beijing as a drift toward a “porcupine island” ⚠️. Meanwhile, the U.S., despite claiming adherence to the one-China policy, has ramped up arms sales and high-level contacts, undermining the principle in practice.
International agreements like the Cairo Declaration and Potsdam Proclamation, plus China’s Anti-Secession Law, uphold Taiwan as part of Chinese territory and serve as a “red line” for separatists. Beijing stresses that reunification is the inevitable trend of history and a matter of international justice 🌐.
The “Justice Mission” drills, following past exercises like “Joint Sword” and “Strait Thunder,” showcase clear strategic objectives and strong deterrence. Beijing hopes these actions will reinforce combat readiness and signal that attempts at separation won’t go unanswered.
As the drills continue, all eyes in the region are on whether this show of force will cool tensions or prompt further international debate. Stay tuned for updates! 🔔
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
