Tensions Rise as Chinese Liaoning Carrier Operates Near Taiwan Amid Political Strains

The Chinese navy, led by its Liaoning aircraft carrier, is conducting military drills southeast of the Philippines, raising alarms in Taiwan as political tensions with Beijing escalate. Taiwan’s President William Lai recently delivered a speech rejecting Beijing's sovereignty claims over Taiwan, which experts suggest could lead to an increase in Chinese military activities near the island.

In a clear response to Lai's address, the Chinese military's Eastern Theater Command released a propaganda video, displaying their readiness for potential conflict. The video aligns with ongoing military drills that involve various Chinese military branches encircling Taiwan. These actions have been met with condemnation from Taipei, which called the exercises an "unreasonable provocation."

Taiwan’s Defense Ministry has mobilized its forces in response, calling for an end to China's provocations and underscoring the need to defend regional peace and democracy. President Lai reassured the Taiwanese public, stating that the government remains fully committed to safeguarding Taiwan’s democratic values and national security in the face of external threats.

Potential for Escalation

While Beijing's actions have raised concerns, some analysts believe China might hold back from significant escalation due to the approaching U.S. elections. However, there remains a real possibility of China conducting targeted military exercises around Taiwan, serving as a message to independence advocates in Taiwan and as a warning to the U.S. and its allies in the region.

China has also threatened additional trade sanctions against Taiwan, suggesting a multi-faceted approach combining military maneuvers with economic pressure to assert control.

Global Reactions

The Pentagon closely monitored China’s recent military exercise, JOINT SWORD 2024B, calling the drills "irresponsible, disproportionate, and destabilizing." A Pentagon statement noted that the exercises coincide with Taiwan's routine domestic-focused National Day address on October 10, which historically provokes minimal response from Beijing. Despite this, China has opted for provocative military actions, which the U.S. described as an unnecessary escalation.

"The entire world has a stake in peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait," the Pentagon stated, adding that the U.S. will continue to work with allies and partners to ensure a free and open Indo-Pacific region. Washington remains committed to its long-standing "One China" policy, as outlined in the Taiwan Relations Act and related agreements, while also affirming its stance on peace and stability in the region.

A Broader Strategy

As China abruptly concludes its drills, it has issued stern warnings to Taiwan, further intensifying the political rhetoric surrounding Taiwan’s sovereignty. Beijing's recent military and economic measures point to a broader strategy aimed at destabilizing Taiwan’s government while dissuading international actors from supporting its independence.

In the midst of this uncertainty, Taiwan remains resolute in its defense. The government continues to call on the international community to support democracy and peace in the Indo-Pacific, as tensions between the U.S., China, and Taiwan play out against the backdrop of global geopolitical shifts.