China has brushed aside criticisms from the U.S. and Japan regarding its large-scale military drills encircling the Taiwan Strait. The drills took place following Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te’s first National Day speech, which Beijing interpreted as advocating for Taiwan’s independence.
During a regular press briefing on Monday, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning made clear Beijing’s stance, stating, “‘Taiwan independence’ is as incompatible with cross-Strait peace as fire with water, and provocations by ‘Taiwan independence’ forces will be met with countermeasures.” In response to international concerns about China undermining regional stability, Mao argued that China remains committed to peace and stability, adding, “Anyone who cares about peace across the Taiwan Strait should stand against Taiwan’s independence.”
Explicitly addressing the U.S., Mao urged Washington to adhere to the One-China principle, avoid supporting Taiwan’s independence, and cease sending “wrong signals” by arming Taiwan. She emphasized that if the U.S. genuinely cared about regional stability, it would act in accordance with the three China-U.S. joint communiqués.
The PLA’s Eastern Theater Command confirmed that the military exercise was a reaction to President Lai’s National Day speech, which China views as a direct challenge to its sovereignty claims over Taiwan.
In response, the U.S. and Japan expressed swift concerns. U.S. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller condemned China’s military drills as an “unwarranted” reaction to a routine annual speech, warning that such provocations could escalate tensions. Miller called on China to “act with restraint” and avoid undermining peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait and the broader region.
Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, a proponent of an Asian NATO to counterbalance China’s influence, stated that Japan would “closely monitor the situation” and ensure it was prepared to respond to any developments. Despite these concerns, China dismissed the criticisms from both countries, indicating they were not worth serious consideration.
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