It is China's biggest show of military force around the island since the presidential election and the victory of candidate Lai, a critic of Beijing.
Taiwan said it had spotted 33 Chinese military aircraft near the island in 24 hours. In addition, seven Chinese warships and two Chinese balloons were observed, the Defense Ministry in Taipei announced on Saturday. 13 aircraft crossed the unofficial maritime border between China and Taiwan, known as the median line.
It was China's biggest show of military force around the island since Beijing-critical candidate Lai Ching-te's victory in Taiwan's presidential election. After the elections, Beijing declared that it would not prevent China's reunification. China will not tolerate “separatist activities” on the autonomous island. China views Taiwan as a breakaway province that should be reunified with the mainland – if necessary, with military force. (APA/AFP)