China has initiated two military exercises, dubbed "United Sharp Sword," as a response to Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen's meeting with the US House Speaker. The drills involve multiple services executing “simulated joint precision strikes on key targets on Taiwan Island” and surrounding waters, under the supervision of the Eastern Theater Command of China's People’s Liberation Army (PLA).
Chinese officials have warned against collusion between Taiwan separatist forces and external entities, emphasizing that they have not ruled out using force to take control of the island. This marks the first time China has fired missiles over Taiwan—an action many experts view as a significant escalation in their military intimidation tactics towards the nation.
The exercises are scheduled to continue until Monday, during which time 71 Chinese jets will fly around Taiwan and nine Chinese ships will be sighted nearby. In reaction, Washington urges Beijing not only to show restraint but also refrain from exploiting President Tsai's visit for military purposes.
Taiwan’s Ocean Affairs Council disseminated video footage depicting one of its vessels tracking a Chinese warship; however, no location was provided. Furthermore, US State Department representatives beseeched China neither use this opportunity nor alter current diplomatic situations.
Surprisingly enough though is how citizens within Taipei—Taiwan’s capital city—are largely unfazed by these new developments throughout mainland Asia.
In relation specifically towards last week when Taiwanese president visited America there seems little-to-no anxiety felt among local residents due likely because such events tend happen regularly without issue so people remain confident despite what may transpire overseas or even closer territories like those currently experiencing turmoil along Southwestern coastlines where foreign militaries face potential threats themselves at hands both air-based naval assaults orchestrated carefully under guise managing international relations safely yet firmly nonetheless all while keeping close watch everything happening regionwide especially given recent uptick tensions stemming primarily disputes surrounding sovereignty claims made by various nations involved ongoing territorial dispute which only heightens sense urgency among everyone even remotely concerned about maintaining peace throughout region