Taiwan Vows Strong Defense After China Fires Rockets in Military Drills

Post by : Saif Nasser

Taiwan has promised to protect its sovereignty and strengthen its defense after China conducted major military drills near the island, firing dozens of rockets and deploying ships and aircraft in a show of force.

President Lai Ching-te delivered a live New Year’s speech from Taipei, saying that Taiwan is determined to defend itself and prepare for any possible threats. “As president, my stance has always been clear: to resolutely defend national sovereignty and strengthen national defense,” he said. Lai emphasized that China’s drills targeted Taiwan’s new combat capabilities, highlighting the importance of boosting the island’s military readiness.

Lai urged opposition parties in the parliament to support his proposal to increase Taiwan’s defense spending by $40 billion. The plan is currently delayed due to a political deadlock in the opposition-controlled legislature. He also noted that 2026 would be a crucial year for Taiwan and said the island must “make plans for the worst, but hope for the best.”

Despite the tensions, Lai expressed willingness to engage with China on equal terms if Beijing respects Taiwan’s sovereignty and the democratic way of life of its people. “We are willing to engage in exchanges and cooperation with China on an equal and dignified basis, promoting a peaceful and shared environment across the strait,” he said.

China responded sharply to Lai’s speech. A spokesperson for China’s Taiwan Affairs Office called the address “riddled with lies and reckless assertions,” accusing Taiwan of trying to mislead the international community.

The military exercises, named “Justice Mission 2025,” were China’s largest near Taiwan in terms of area and proximity. The drills forced Taiwan to cancel dozens of domestic flights and deploy military jets and warships to monitor the situation. The Chinese maneuvers came just 11 days after the United States announced a record $11.1 billion arms package for Taiwan. Beijing said the drills were meant to deter outside intervention and warned that China’s “reunification” with Taiwan cannot be stopped.

The international community, including the European Commission and the United Kingdom, expressed concern over the exercises, calling them a threat to regional security. Analysts say the situation underscores growing tensions in the Taiwan Strait and highlights the urgent need for clear defense strategies and diplomatic efforts to prevent conflict.

Taiwan remains focused on strengthening its defense while pursuing peaceful dialogue, even as China continues to assert its claims over the island. President Lai’s message reflects the resolve of the Taiwanese people to protect their democratic system and way of life amid rising pressure from Beijing.