China began extensive military exercises around Taiwan on Monday, deploying an aircraft carrier, ships and warplanes. These drills simulate the sealing off of key ports and highlight the rising tensions in the Taiwan Strait.

The Chinese Defence Ministry stated that these exercises were a response to Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te, who recently rejected China's demands for Taiwan to acknowledge itself as part of China. The drills started just four days after Taiwan celebrated its National Day, during which President Lai emphasized Taiwan’s commitment to resisting any attempts of annexation by China.

Taiwan’s Secretary-General of the National Security Council, Joseph Wu, addressed the situation, stating, “Our military will definitely deal with the threat from China appropriately.” He added that using force to threaten other countries goes against the spirit of the United Nations Charter, which encourages peaceful resolutions to disputes.

In response to the military drills, Taiwan's Presidential Office urged China to stop its military provocations, which threaten regional peace and Taiwan’s democratic freedoms. On Monday, Taiwan’s Defense Ministry reported tracking 25 Chinese warplanes and several ships near its waters.

China's military exercises included the Liaoning aircraft carrier, with footage showing a J-15 fighter jet taking off from its deck. However, the exact location of the carrier is unknown. Senior Captain Li Xi of China’s People’s Liberation Army stated that the exercises were a significant warning to those supporting Taiwan’s independence.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning emphasised that Taiwan’s independence is not compatible with peace in the region and warned of countermeasures against provocation.

Despite the tensions, many residents in Taiwan's capital, Taipei, remain unfazed. One resident, Chang Chia-rui, said, “I don’t worry, I don’t panic either; it doesn’t have any impact on me.” Another, Jeff Huang, noted, “Taiwan is very stable now; I am used to China’s military exercises.”

The U.S., Taiwan’s main unofficial ally, criticised China's actions as unnecessary and called for restraint to maintain peace and stability in the region.

Additionally, China announced sanctions against two Taiwanese individuals promoting independence. Puma Shen and Robert Tsao will not be allowed to travel to China or Hong Kong due to their involvement in training civilians for wartime readiness.

China has conducted similar military drills in the past, particularly following significant events involving Taiwan, such as visits from U.S. officials. The ongoing military activity around Taiwan has increased in recent years, with China conducting frequent exercises near the island.