Taiwan On High Alert as Chinese Military Exercises Coincide With Lai's Inauguration

The Bottom Line Upfront

Taiwan scrambled jets and put its missile, naval, and land units on alert in response to Chinese military exercises around the island, following the inauguration of President Lai Ching-te.

The Breakdown

• Taiwan's Defense Ministry condemned the exercises as a threat to regional peace, while Lai pledged to maintain Taiwan's democracy and freedom without provoking conflict.
• U.S. and regional officials, including Japan's foreign minister, condemned China's actions, emphasizing the need for peace in the Taiwan Strait. The exercises are seen as China's attempt to intimidate Taiwan and assert control over the Asia-Pacific region.