China Intensifies Pressure on Taiwan with Unprecedented Balloon Incursions
In a significant escalation, China sends a record number of balloons over Taiwan, challenging airspace control and raising tensions.
- China's recent deployment of balloons over Taiwan marks a notable increase in aerial incursions, with 83 balloons detected since December.
- The balloons, suspected to be for weather monitoring, have crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait, challenging the unofficial airspace boundary.
- Taiwan's presidential election victory by anti-Communist candidate William Lai Ching-te coincides with the surge in balloon incidents.
- Analysts suggest the balloons could gather intelligence for China's military, potentially aiding in planning for air and sea attacks on Taiwan.
- Taiwanese authorities refrain from shooting down the balloons to avoid potential civilian casualties and property damage.