By yourNEWS Media Newsroom
China has launched its largest military demonstration around Taiwan in decades, deploying 60 navy ships and 30 coast guard vessels near the island this week, according to the Wall Street Journal. This escalation occurs as President Joe Biden appears less publicly active, transitioning duties to President-elect Donald Trump.
The drills, Taiwan officials believe, aim to signal China’s intent to assert control over the Taiwan Strait. “To our east, there’s a wall of [People’s Liberation Army] PLA Navy forces, and right next to our air defense identification zone, there’s another one,” Lt. Gen. Hsieh Jih-sheng told the WSJ. “They’re sending us a pretty clear message: to turn the Taiwan Strait into their internal waters.”
Escalation Amid Transition
The Biden administration has faced criticism for its handling of China relations, particularly its perceived inability to curb Beijing’s cyberwarfare, espionage, and influence operations. Biden’s reduced public schedule, highlighted by rumors of disengagement, has only fueled speculation about his waning influence on U.S. foreign policy. A National Security Council spokesperson recently denied claims that Biden fell asleep during a meeting with African leaders, stating he was “simply listening to his counterpart’s remarks.”
China’s maneuvers coincide with Biden’s recent discussions on U.S. funding for humanitarian projects in Africa, part of efforts to counter Beijing’s growing influence on the continent. The initiatives carry an estimated $1 billion price tag, according to a White House briefing.
Trump’s Approach
President-elect Donald Trump has yet to announce a formal policy regarding Taiwan, but during a recent NBC interview, he expressed optimism for a peaceful resolution. “I have a very good relationship [with Chinese President Xi Jinping], and I hope he doesn’t do it,” Trump said.
Trump’s administration will inherit the complexities of the U.S. “one China policy,” which officially recognizes the People’s Republic of China while maintaining informal relations with Taiwan. The policy, according to the Center for Strategic and International Studies, has long been a cornerstone of U.S.-China relations.
Implications for Taiwan
Taiwanese authorities have reported a surge in military activity, noting 47 Chinese warplanes and 21 vessels near the island in the past 24 hours. Officials believe these exercises are part of preparations for a potential blockade should conflict arise. “The maneuvers are meant to test their readiness and intimidate us,” a Taiwanese military spokesperson said.
The Biden administration has not commented on the latest developments, while Trump’s transition team has refrained from issuing immediate policy statements. The future of U.S.-China relations and Taiwan’s sovereignty remains a critical issue for the incoming administration.
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