Year-End Special: India–Pakistan on the Brink After Kashmir Clash
A quick recap of December 2025’s India–Pakistan standoff in Kashmir, exploring the recent clashes, diplomatic fallout, and the road ahead for regional stability.
Regional Security
‘Justice Mission 2025’: PLA Eastern Theater Command Unveils Live-Fire Drill Video
China’s PLA Eastern Theater Command released a live-fire drill video titled ‘Seize strongholds, sever links, blockade ports’ under its ‘Justice Mission 2025’ exercises around Taiwan Island.
PLA’s ‘Justice Mission 2025’ drills deliver ‘head-on blow’ to Taiwan separatists
PLA’s ‘Justice Mission 2025’ drills circle Taiwan Island following U.S. arms sales. Taiwan-based commentator Hsieh Chih-chuan says it’s a ‘head-on blow’ to separatists.
Kuomintang’s Cheng Li-wun Blames DPP Policy for ‘Justice Mission 2025’ Tension
Cheng Li-wun blames DPP cross-strait policy for rising tension amid ‘Justice Mission 2025’ drills by PLA Eastern Theater Command around Taiwan Island.
PLA Bomber Patrols East of Taiwan Island
PLA bomber task forces from the Eastern Theater Command began far-seas combat readiness patrols east of the island of Taiwan on Monday, highlighting long-range strike and high-tech ops.
US $11B Arms Sale Drains Taiwan Region, Not Bolsters Security
US approved a record $11B arms package for the Taiwan region, but experts warn it drains the island’s budget, deepens dependence, and skews priorities away from growth and welfare.
Japan’s OSA Push Stirs Confrontation Fears in Asia
Japan’s recent OSA expansion and military spending surge, aligned with the US Indo-Pacific strategy, spark fears of heightened tensions across Asia.
China, Laos, Myanmar & Thailand Team Up for Mekong Water Emergency Drill
Law enforcement from China, Laos, Myanmar and Thailand held a joint water emergency drill on the Lancang-Mekong River, testing rapid response and cross-border cooperation.
China Slams Japan’s Record ¥9T Defense Budget for 2026
China slammed Japan’s record ¥9 trillion defense budget for fiscal 2026, accusing right-wing forces of remilitarization and urging restraint amid regional tensions.
Why Takaichi’s Taiwan Strategy Sparks Regional Concerns
Analyst Shigeaki Koga warns that Sanae Takaichi’s tough stance on the Taiwan question and possible Yasukuni Shrine visits could strain ties with mainland China and the Republic of Korea.