Trump Dismisses Concerns Over China’s Military Drills Near Taiwan
According to the International Desk of Webangah News Agency, U.S. President Donald Trump has dismissed concerns over China‘s military drills near Taiwan, emphasizing his close relationship with Chinese President Xi Jinping. When questioned about potential Chinese military action to control the self-governing island, Trump stated, “I have a very good relationship with President Xi, and he hasn’t mentioned anything about this to me. I don’t think China intends to take such action.”
Trump also downplayed the significance of China’s exercises, noting they have been conducted for 20 to 25 years. “There’s nothing to worry about,” he added.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian, however, defended the drills as a necessary measure to protect national sovereignty and a direct response to foreign interference in China’s internal affairs. “These actions are essential steps to defend national sovereignty and territorial integrity,” Lin said on Monday. He criticized Taiwan’s separatist relations with the U.S., warning that Taipei’s actions are turning Taiwan into a “powder keg.”
The People’s Liberation Army (PLA) deployed ground, naval, air, and artillery units for the “Mission Justice 2025” drills around Taiwan. The Eastern Theater Command of the PLA announced live-fire exercises in five designated zones near the island, imposing 10-hour maritime and air restrictions starting at 8 a.m. on Tuesday.
This marks the sixth round of Chinese military exercises since 2022, following the U.S.’s announcement of an $11.1 billion arms sale to Taiwan. The PLA stated it would employ fighter jets, bombers, drones, and long-range missiles in simulated multi-directional attacks on moving ground targets.
A spokesperson for the Eastern Theater Command called the drills a “stern warning” to Taiwan’s separatist forces and foreign interveners. While China has previously conducted blockade exercises around Taiwanese ports, this is the first time it has openly stated the drills aim to deter foreign military intervention.
