Chinese Naval Maneuvers Conclude Amid Heightened Tensions with Taiwan

Chinese naval and coast guard vessels have returned to their home ports, marking the conclusion of an extensive maritime exercise, according to Taiwanese officials. On Thursday, Taiwan’s coast guard shared images depicting Chinese ships navigating northward through turbulent waters, heading back to China.

Hsieh Ching-chin, deputy director general of Taiwan’s coast guard, stated, “All the Chinese coast guard went back to China yesterday. Although there has been no official announcement, we consider the drills concluded.”

While Beijing has not confirmed the exercises, a spokesperson for the Chinese defense ministry emphasized that decisions regarding military activities are made independently, based on national needs and circumstances. He reinforced the military’s commitment to safeguarding China’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, asserting that the People’s Liberation Army remains resolute against any moves toward Taiwanese independence.

Taiwanese authorities reported that these large-scale drills, the most significant in years, extended from the southern islands of Japan to the South China Sea. Approximately 90 Chinese warships and coast guard vessels participated, simulating attacks on foreign ships and practicing blockades of critical maritime routes.

Despite the absence of announcements regarding increased military activity from Beijing, tensions have escalated following Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te’s recent visit to the United States and a controversial phone call with a senior U.S. politician, igniting strong reactions from China.

In light of the returning vessels, Taiwan’s military and coast guard have deactivated emergency response centers that were activated during the exercises. Hsieh noted that the fleet returned in two groups, with Chinese ships detected making their way back to Chinese ports.

As China continues to intensify its military presence around Taiwan, the island remains under the persistent threat of potential aggression, with the latest exercises surpassing previous military responses to international visits by U.S. officials.