Taiwan on High Alert as Chinese Ships Pull Back
Taiwan remained on high military and maritime alert even as Chinese naval and coast guard vessels began pulling back following large-scale military drills around the island. Taiwanese authorities said vigilance would continue until China formally declares the end of its exercises and all military activity returns to normal levels.
Chinese Military Exercises Near Taiwan
China had conducted extensive military drills around Taiwan involving warships, coast guard vessels and military aircraft. Taiwan’s defence authorities said multiple Chinese aircraft and ships operated in areas surrounding the island over recent days, with some aircraft crossing the median line of the Taiwan Strait, an informal buffer zone. The drills were viewed by Taipei as a show of force amid ongoing tensions over Taiwan’s political status.
Taiwan’s Security Response
Despite the partial withdrawal of Chinese vessels, Taiwan’s military and coast guard kept emergency response centres active. Officials said monitoring and patrol operations would continue to ensure readiness against any sudden escalation. The defence ministry noted that Chinese activity had reduced but not fully ceased, warranting continued caution.
Regional and Diplomatic Concerns
Taiwan criticised the drills as destabilising and said they posed a risk to regional peace. The exercises also drew attention from international observers, with concerns that repeated military activity near Taiwan could heighten tensions in the region. Analysts said the drills underline the fragile security environment in the Taiwan Strait and the need for sustained diplomatic engagement.
Situation Remains Fluid
Taiwanese authorities said they will reassess their alert status only after confirming a complete withdrawal of Chinese forces and a clear end to the exercises. Until then, security forces remain on standby.
