China holds military drills around Taiwan as warning to 'separatist forces'

BBC News - WorldEN 3 min read 100% complete December 29, 2025 at 05:14 AM

AI Summary

medium article 3 min

China is conducting military drills around Taiwan, simulating island seizure and blockade, as a warning against "separatist forces." The drills, codenamed "Justice Mission 2025," involve the army, navy, air force, and rocket force, including live-fire exercises. The exercises follow the U.S. announcement of a large weapons package sale to Taiwan, which drew protest from Beijing. Taiwan's presidential office criticized the drills, calling them a challenge to international norms, and its defense ministry has deployed forces and missile systems to monitor the situation. The Chinese military's Eastern Theater Command described the exercise as a "shield of justice" against those plotting independence. While China advocates for "peaceful reunification," it reserves the right to use "non-peaceful means" to prevent Taiwan's secession.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Lai Ching-te 50% United States ×260% Taiwan ×570% China ×680%

Keywords

taiwan 100% military drills 100% china 90% separatist forces 80% taiwan strait 70% status quo 60% weapons package 50% military exercise 50% peaceful reunification 40%