China may launch military drills amid President Lai's Pacific trip and US transit: Report
China Plans Military Drills Near Taiwan Amid President William Lai's Pacific Trip
China is expected to conduct military exercises near Taiwan in response to Taiwanese President William Lai's upcoming trip to the Pacific, which may include stops in the US. These drills are anticipated to occur during or shortly after Lai's trip, ending on December 6, as a demonstration of Beijing's disapproval of what it considers provocations.
Lai is set to visit three of Taiwan's diplomatic allies in the Pacific, with possible stopovers in Hawaii and Guam. Although these US transits are not confirmed, details are expected to be revealed soon. Chen Binhua, spokesperson for China's Taiwan Affairs Office, criticized Lai's planned stops, labeling them as provocative and a violation of the 'one China' principle.
China has previously conducted two major military exercises near Taiwan this year, named "Joint Sword-2024A" and "Joint Sword-2024B." Analysts suggest that Beijing might rebrand ongoing maneuvers as "Joint Sword-2024C," turning routine military activities into a larger show of force.
A Taiwanese security official mentioned that Beijing could expand its regular "joint combat readiness patrol" and might schedule a "targeted exercise" at the end of Lai's trip. The drills align with Beijing's goal of asserting dominance in the region, especially during the transition to the incoming US administration of President-elect Donald Trump.
Despite potential weather limitations in the Taiwan Strait during winter, the exercises are a strategic move to test Washington's response. With 20 to 30 Chinese naval vessels active in the South China Sea, experts believe Beijing is ready to escalate its military presence near Taiwan, using Lai's visit as a reason to further its regional ambitions.
Doubts Revealed
China
China is a large country in Asia, known for its rich history and culture. It is one of the most powerful countries in the world.
Military Drills
Military drills are practice exercises conducted by armed forces to prepare for real-life situations. They help soldiers and military equipment to be ready for any potential conflicts.
Taiwan
Taiwan is an island located near China. It has its own government and operates like a separate country, but China considers it a part of its territory.
President William Lai
William Lai is a political leader from Taiwan. He holds an important position in Taiwan's government and is involved in international relations.
Pacific Trip
A Pacific trip refers to a journey across countries or islands in the Pacific Ocean. In this context, it means President Lai is visiting countries in that region.
US Stops
US stops mean that during President Lai's trip, he might visit or pass through the United States, which is a country in North America.
Beijing
Beijing is the capital city of China. It is the political center where the Chinese government makes important decisions.
Provocations
Provocations are actions that are intended to make someone angry or upset. In this case, China feels that President Lai's trip is challenging or provoking them.
Regional Dominance Strategy
A regional dominance strategy is a plan by a country to become the most powerful and influential in a particular area. China wants to be the main power in the region around Taiwan.
US Administration Transition
US administration transition refers to the change in leadership when a new President takes office in the United States. This can affect how the US responds to international events.
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