In the aftermath of the recent Trump-Xi summit in Beijing, China has escalated its military patrols near Taiwan as a major US-approved weapons deal for Taipei remains on hold. Taiwan’s military is on high alert, responding to Chinese “joint combat readiness patrols” near the island. The Ministry of National Defense reported detecting 29 Chinese aircraft and seven warships operating around Taiwan, with some crossing the unofficial median line in the Taiwan Strait.
Taiwan’s National Security Council criticized China as the source of instability in the Asia Pacific region. Tensions increased further over the weekend, with reports of China deploying over 100 ships along the first island chain. China’s delay in approving a visit by a Pentagon official is seen as a tactic to pressure Trump regarding the arms package for Taiwan.
The US has paused the $14 billion arms sale due to the Iran crisis, ensuring missile supply for potential conflicts. Despite the military build-up in the Middle East, China’s intentions towards Taiwan remain uncertain. Beijing has reiterated its preference for reunification through political means.
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