China launches military drills around Taiwan amid tensions over US visits

China conducted military exercises around Taiwan in response to visits by Taiwanese officials to the US.
Taiwan condemned the drills and said it would respond to safeguard its security.
China sees Taiwan as its territory and opposes foreign relations by Taiwanese officials.
The US maintains unofficial ties with Taiwan while recognizing Beijing's government.
China accused Taiwan's ruling party of advocating independence and labeled its vice president a "troublemaker."