China Starts Military Exercises in Taiwan Strait

Taiwan has reported the presence of 42 aircraft and 8 ships from the People's Liberation Army of China in the waters adjacent to the island, according to Taiwan's defense department. It was noted that 29 aircraft entered the island's air defense identification zone.

Earlier, the Chinese side announced military exercises in the Taiwan Strait from April 8-10, as well as in the northern, southern, and eastern waters of the island. The Chinese military will also conduct patrols around Taiwan.

Media reports state that the exercises are taking place against the backdrop of an unannounced meeting between U.S. House Speaker Kevin McCarthy and Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen in California, after which the American side emphasized the necessity of selling arms to Taiwan.

The Chinese Foreign Ministry has condemned the interactions between Taiwan and the United States, warning that Beijing will respond decisively. At the same time, the American side notes that U.S.-Taiwan cooperation does not undermine the principle of