China sends more than 50 war planes near Taiwan as 'punishment' to separatism

The Chinese government warned Taiwan on Monday that continuing to push for "separatism" would lead to "self-destruction." Simultaneously, China dispatched over 50 warplanes to conduct military exercises in the area surrounding Taiwan, further escalating tensions.

A spokesperson for China's Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council stated that the military exercises were a "punishment" for Taiwan region leader Lai Ching-te's continued promotion of "separatism." Previously, Beijing had intensified military activities around Taiwan, as China considers Taiwan its territory, a stance that continues to fuel regional instability.

Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense stated that 54 Chinese military aircraft and drones flew near Taiwan on Monday, and the Taiwan Air Force and Navy have been ordered to monitor the situation. The Ministry of National Defense also pointed out that China conducted two patrols, with 42 aircraft crossing the median line of the Taiwan Strait, an unofficial buffer zone between the two sides, marking a significant escalation.

Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council stated that Beijing's continued military threats against Taiwan have exacerbated tensions in the Taiwan Strait, undermining regional peace and stability. The council called the Chinese Communist Party a "troublemaker" and urged allies to stop China's military expansion. Lai Ching-te stated last week that China has deepened its influence and infiltration of Taiwan and pledged to take measures to counter Beijing's attempts to "annex" Taiwan, underscoring the heightened sense of urgency.

According to local media reports, Taiwan's Immigration Department revoked the visa of a Chinese internet celebrity last week because she posted videos supporting China's use of force to seize Taiwan. The internet celebrity, identified by authorities as surnamed Liu but known online as "Yaya," reportedly moved to Taiwan from mainland China after marrying a Taiwanese man, highlighting the complex social dynamics at play.