Taipei: A United States State Department spokesperson has described China's recent military exercises near Taiwan as "brazen and irresponsible threats," reaffirming Washington's long-standing support for Taipei. These comments come in the wake of heightened military activities by China's People's Liberation Army (PLA) in the region. According to Focus Taiwan, the unnamed State Department official emphasized that China's actions are inconsistent with its claims of being a stabilizing force globally. The U.S. has maintained its commitment to Taiwan for 45 years and continues to support it against China's military and diplomatic pressures. The spokesperson highlighted the United States' dedication to maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait and opposing any unilateral changes to the status quo. In a related statement, a U.S. Department of Defense spokesperson confirmed that the American military is closely monitoring the PLA's activities around Taiwan, though specific details were not disclosed . These remarks were prompted by inquiries regarding the U.S. response to the PLA's military maneuvers. On Monday, the PLA launched a significant operation involving over two dozen military aircraft crossing the Taiwan Strait's median line and entering Taiwan's air defense identification zone (ADIZ). This operation was conducted in coordination with Chinese naval forces and lasted from 6 a.m. to about 9 p.m., as reported by Taiwan's military. This activity marked an escalation following a relatively calm period in the days preceding and following the operation. Chen Binhua, spokesperson for the Taiwan Affairs Office of China's State Council, defended the drills as a "just and necessary" response to protect national sovereignty and maintain peace in the Taiwan Strait. He attributed the exercises to counteractions against Taiwan President Lai Ching-te's alleged separatist rhetoric and actions, which he claimed heightened tensions across the Strait. The strong language used by the U.S. State Department has dr awn attention, with Robert Wang, a former State Department official, noting its unusual sternness. Julian Ku, a law professor at Hofstra University, pointed out that the term "brazen" indicates a subtle shift in tone, suggesting increased U.S. support for Taiwan compared to previous administrations. Reflecting on past events, during the "Joint Sword 2024B" exercises in October 2024, the State Department also expressed serious concern over the PLA's maneuvers, labeling them as "unwarranted" and potentially escalating tensions in the region.
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