Tensions Escalate: China's Military Exercises Encircle Taiwan

China has commenced extensive military exercises around Taiwan and its outlying islands. This action is a response to Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te's refusal to recognize Taiwan as part of China. Taiwan's Defense Ministry has described the activities as provocative and expressed readiness to respond.

China has launched significant military exercises surrounding Taiwan and its adjacent islands, a move described by its Defense Ministry as a reaction to Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te's stance.

The tension stems from President Lai's refusal to accept Beijing's insistence that Taiwan identify itself as part of the People's Republic of China, governed by the Communist Party.

In response, Taiwan's Defense Ministry has labeled the drills as provocations and affirmed its military's preparedness to counter any potential threats.

(With inputs from agencies.)