Taiwan detects 16 sorties of Chinese military aircraft, 8 vessels around itself
Taipei, May 23
Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense on Saturday detected the presence of sixteen sorties of Chinese military aircraft and eight vessels operating around its territorial waters as of 6 am.
Thirteen out of sixteen sorties crossed the median line and entered Taiwan's northern, central, southwestern and eastern parts of the Air Defense Identification Zone (ADIZ).
In a post on X, the MND said, "16 sorties of PLA aircraft and 8 PLAN vessels operating around Taiwan detected up until 6 a.m. (UTC+8) today. 13 out of 16 sorties crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait and entered Taiwan's northern, central, southwestern and eastern part ADIZ. ROC Armed Forces have monitored the situation and responded."
Earlier on Friday, Taiwan's MND detected the presence of six sorties of Chinese military aircraft and ten vessels operating around it.
In a post on X, the MND said, "6 sorties of PLA aircraft and 10 PLAN vessels operating around Taiwan detected up until 6 a.m. (UTC+8) today. 6 out of 6 sorties entered Taiwan's northern, southwestern and eastern part ADIZ. ROC Armed Forces have monitored the situation and responded."
Earlier on May 21, US President Donald Trump in his gaggle with Press at Joint Base Andrews En Route Groton, CT, said that the US will work on the 'Taiwan problem'.
"On Taiwan, I'll speak to everyone. We have that situation very well in hand. We had a great meeting with President Xi; it was amazing actually. We'll work on that Taiwan problem," he said.
China's claim over Taiwan is a complex issue rooted in historical, political, and legal arguments. Beijing asserts that Taiwan is an inseparable part of China, a viewpoint embedded in national policy and upheld by domestic laws and international statements.
Taiwan, however, maintains a distinct identity, functioning independently with its government, military, and economy. Taiwan's status remains a significant point of international debate, testing the principles of sovereignty, self-determination, and non-interference in international law, as per the United Service Institution of India.
China's claim to Taiwan originates from the Qing Dynasty's annexation of the island in 1683 after defeating Ming loyalist Koxinga.
— ANI
Reader Comments
As an Indian, I see parallels with our own border issues. China's assertiveness near Taiwan reminds us to be vigilant. But we must respect other nations' sovereignty while protecting our own interests. India should maintain strategic autonomy on this. 🤔
This constant military posturing by China is concerning. The median line crossing is a serious escalation. Taiwan has every right to defend itself. The US should stand firm on its commitments to Taiwan's security. We cannot let China bully its way around the region.
Interesting how the US talks about 'solving the Taiwan problem' while simultaneously arming them. India should be careful—what happens in the Taiwan Strait affects the entire Indo-Pacific. We must strengthen our own maritime capabilities. ⚓
I don't understand why some countries try to interfere. Taiwan has always been part of China historically—even the article mentions it. These military sorties are just routine drills. The West loves to create drama where none exists. 🙄
As someone who studied international relations, this is textbook power projection. China wants to signal that any move toward Taiwan independence will have consequences. But I wish both sides would talk more and fly fewer jets—peace is better for everyone. 🕊️
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.