China reported that its planes used live ammunition to conduct mock attacks on Taiwan. AFP reports that the Chinese aircraft carrier Shandong was involved in the ongoing exercises.
China’s Eastern Army Command said in a statement, “Many batches of H-6K fighters carry live ammunition.. conducted multiple waves of simulated attacks against high-profile targets in Taiwan.”
The exercise is a stark warning from China to the autonomous island and comes in response to Taiwan’s president’s visit to the United States last week, however, the United States have urged China to exercise restraint.
Taiwan said about 70 Chinese planes flew over the island on Sunday. Eleven Chinese ships were also reportedly sighted.
On Saturday, Taiwan reported that 45 warplanes crossed the Taiwan Strait midline, the unofficial border line between Taiwanese and Chinese territories, or entered the southwestern part of the identification zone.
China dubbed the operation “Common Sword” and said it would last until Monday. Taiwan has accused Beijing of using President Masai’s visit as a pretext for military exercises. This has seriously undermined peace and stability in the region, Taiwan also said.
“Seriously damaging peace, stability and security in the region. Please turn around and leave immediately. If you proceed, we will take action to disembark,” a seaman was heard radioing a Chinese ship.
The US State Department has urged China not to take advantage of President Tsai’s visit to the US, asking for restraint and no change status quo. The United States also said it is monitoring the situation and stressed that it has sufficient resources and capabilities in the region to ensure peace and stability and to fulfill its national security obligations.
The United States severed diplomatic relations with Taiwan in favor of China in 1979. However, they are required by law to provide Taiwan with means of self-defense.
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