Overview
- The PLA Eastern Theater Command deployed army, navy, air force and rocket force units to approach Taiwan from multiple directions.
- Live-fire areas span the Taiwan Strait and waters to the north, southeast, southwest and east, with sea and air restrictions for 10 hours from 8:30 a.m. local time Monday and exercises continuing into Tuesday.
- Officials said the drills test joint theater combat capability, including maritime–air patrols, comprehensive control and the blockade of key ports and zones.
- Taiwan condemned the operation as military intimidation that undermines regional security, and presidential spokesperson Karen Kuo said its forces are fully prepared and have taken necessary measures.
- The move follows stepped-up U.S.–Taiwan security cooperation, including an $11.1 billion arms package, and heightened tensions with Japan over remarks about a possible response to a Taiwan conflict.