China has stepped up its military activity near Taiwan, sending 25 aircraft into the island's air defense identification zone (ADIZ) on Wednesday, accompanied by five warships. This is the second such incursion this week. The aircraft included J-10 and J-16 fighters, as well as H-6 bombers. Some of the aircraft crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait, which previously served as an unofficial barrier between the two sides.
.gif)
Taiwan's military dispatched ships and aircraft to keep watch, but the Chinese aircraft did not enter Taiwanese airspace. Taiwan's defense ministry said the incursions were "provocative" and "unnecessary". It said China was trying to intimidate Taiwan and interfere with its democratic processes.
China has been stepping up its military activity near Taiwan in recent years, as it seeks to pressure the island to accept its sovereignty. Taiwan's democratically elected government rejects China's claim and says only the island's people can decide their future. The latest incursions come as Taiwan Vice President William Lai is set to visit the United States this week. China has said it will not tolerate any official visits between Taiwan and the United States.
The United States has been a strong supporter of Taiwan and has pledged to help the island defend itself. The US State Department said it was "deeply concerned" by the Chinese incursions and called on China to "cease its military intimidation". The latest incursions are a reminder of the growing tensions between China and Taiwan. It is unclear how long China will continue to escalate its military activity, but it is clear that Taiwan is a major source of tension between the two countries.