Taiwan braces for potential conflict with China amid tensions
Taiwan conducted its first war game to help prepare for a potential escalation of conflict with China. Dozens of government agencies at various levels and citizen groups participated in the exercises.
The Office of the President of Taiwan, Lai Ching-te, organized the first war game, which aimed to anticipate military escalation in the conflict with China, according to Reuters, citing government sources. Dozens of government agencies, both at the central and local levels, as well as citizen groups, participated in the three-hour tabletop exercises (TTX).
The war game took place at the president's office in Taipei and was led by Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim and the Secretary General of the National Security Council, Joseph Wu. The exercises included various scenarios, such as intense military actions by China in the so-called "gray zone" and situations where Taiwan is "on the brink of conflict." The goal was to test the readiness of Taiwanese agencies and society to respond.
The Polish Press Agency reminds us that Chinese military activity around Taiwan has reached an unprecedented level. According to Defense Ministry spokesman Sun Li-fang, the number of ships and Coast Guard units in the region is the largest in decades. Chinese units have been deployed along the so-called first island chain, posing a significant threat to Taipei.
Beijing's reaction to Taiwan president's activities
Beijing's actions are seen as a response to the foreign activities of Taiwan's president, Lai Ching-te, who recently visited several island nations in the Pacific, as well as the American island of Guam and Hawaii. The Chinese authorities criticize these visits, describing Lai as a "separatist," while Taiwanese see their country as independent.
In response to rising tensions, the United States decided to sell military equipment to Taiwan, including parts for F-16 aircraft. This decision was met with a strong reaction from China, which imposed sanctions on 13 American defense companies and their representatives, protesting against any formal contacts with Taipei.
The increase in defense spending in Taiwan is a response to the growing threat. The authorities have allocated a record $19 billion for defense in 2024. The defense budget for the coming year is set to be 6% higher, aiming to enhance the island's security. The tightening situation in the East China Sea, Taiwan Strait, and South China Sea demonstrates rising regional tensions. China, recognizing Taiwan as its province, does not rule out the use of force to "reunify the motherland," while Taiwan emphasizes its independence and right to self-determination.
