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China began military drills with live ammunition near Taiwan.
The exercises, announced by the Chinese army under the name Mission Justice-2025, include the deployment of troops, aircraft, warships, and long-range artillery systems, reported EFE.
They aim to "deter" the "external forces" seeking to "interfere in the Taiwan issue."
The maneuvers will continue until Tuesday in seven air and maritime zones near the island, using live fire.
"This is a strong warning against the separatist forces of 'Taiwan independence' and external interference, as well as a legitimate and necessary action to safeguard China's sovereignty and national unity," said Shi Yi, spokesperson for the Eastern Theater Command of the Chinese Army.
Likewise, the Chinese Coast Guard conducts "comprehensive law enforcement" patrols in the waters near Taiwan and around the Matsu and Wuqiu archipelagos, which are located off the Chinese coast but are controlled by Taipei.
These new maneuvers represent an escalation compared to similar actions in the past, as they encompass wider areas of the Strait and the eastern coast of Taiwan.
"These exercises are primarily focused on combat readiness patrols for air-maritime operations, comprehensive control takeovers, the blockade of ports and key areas, and three-dimensional external deterrence," said the Eastern Theater Operations Command in a statement.
The National Defense Ministry of Taiwan responded to Chinese operations by deploying forces to "protect freedom and democracy" and safeguard Taiwanese sovereignty.
Additionally, Taiwanese authorities reported detecting 89 warplanes, 14 military ships, and 14 Chinese Coast Guard vessels operating around the island, as well as a fleet of four amphibious assault ships in the Western Pacific.
The maneuvers are set against a backdrop of U.S. military support for Taipei and recent visits by high-profile Japanese politicians to Taiwan.
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