What happens when tensions are already high—and one side decides to flex its muscles?
That’s the question hanging over Taiwan this week.
China has launched large-scale military drills around the island, simulating a blockade and the seizure of key areas.
The exercises, dubbed “Justice Mission 2025,” involve China’s army, navy, air force and rocket force, including live-fire drills.
Beijing says the message is clear: this is a warning to what it calls “separatist forces”.
The timing is no accident. The drills come just days after the US approved an $11bn arms sale to Taiwan.
Tensions Around Taiwan
The move drew furious condemnation from Beijing.
“Any sinister schemes to obstruct China’s reunification are doomed to fail,” a foreign ministry spokesman warned.
Taiwan isn’t taking chances. Its defence ministry says it has detected 89 Chinese aircraft and 28 vessels nearby and has placed its own forces on high alert.
Flights are being diverted, affecting more than 100,000 passengers.
President Lai Ching-te struck a careful balance, saying Taiwan wants peace—but peace backed by “real strength”.
Most Taiwanese favour the status quo. Still, with war games circling the island, one question lingers: how close is practice to reality?
