Just after U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken concluded his visit to China, Taiwan reported renewed Chinese military activity near the island. On April 27, Taiwan detected 12 Chinese aircraft crossing the sensitive median line of the Taiwan Strait. Taiwan’s defence ministry stated that a total of 22 Chinese military aircraft, including Su-30 fighters, were spotted.
The aircraft were involved in “joint combat readiness patrols” with Chinese warships, according to Taiwan’s defence ministry. While Taiwan’s armed forces responded appropriately, China’s defence ministry did not comment on the matter. The incident highlights escalating tensions between China and Taiwan, with Beijing considering Taiwan its own territory. The United States, Taiwan’s most crucial international supporter, continues to stress the importance of peace and stability in the region.