China ‘battle-ready patrols’ around Taiwan in recent days

Chinese soldiers take part in the “Peace Mission 2021” exercise – Photo: GETTY IMAGES

In the notice posted on Weibo on June 1,spokesman for the Eastern Theater Command of the People’s Liberation Army, Colonel Thi Nghi (Shi Yi), said that in recent days they have conducted a “combat readiness patrol” in the sea and area. the sky around the island of Taiwan.

According to Reuters news agency, the Eastern Theater Command is one of five battlefields of the Chinese military that is responsible for deploying China’s eastern joint combat command. This war zone has its headquarters located in Nanjing city.

“Recently, the United States has frequently made moves on the Taiwan issue, saying one thing and doing another, inciting support for the independence forces of Taiwan, which will put Taiwan in a dangerous situation. “, the statement of the Eastern Theater Command added.

According to the statement, Taiwan is part of China and the Chinese military will continue to strengthen military training and preparations to “prevent” interference from foreign forces and the actions of those who are not part of China. support Taiwan independence.

The statement did not specify the date of the said patrol. However, Taipei officials said 30 Chinese military aircraft flew into the island’s air defense identification zone (ADIZ) on May 30. This is the most deployment of Chinese aircraft to Taipei’s ADIZ since January 2022.

Taiwan’s National Defense Agency has issued an alert and deployed an anti-aircraft missile system to monitor the movements of the Chinese planes.

China has always considered Taiwan an inalienable part of its territory, and has not ruled out using force to unify the island. Beijing has ramped up military activities around the island for more than two years, trying to pressure Taipei to accept China’s claims.

Beijing is particularly unhappy with US support for Taiwan.

As for Taiwan, the Taipei government insists it wants peace, but the island will defend itself if necessary.