China conducted large-scale military exercises surrounding Taiwan and its outlying islands on Monday, as confirmed by China's Defense Ministry. The drills were initiated in response to Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te's refusal to acknowledge Beijing's demands for Taiwan to recognize itself as a part of the People's Republic of China under the rule of the Communist Party.
Taiwan's Defense Ministry condemned the exercises as a provocation and stated that its forces were prepared to respond to any threats. President Lai, who assumed office in May, represents the Democratic Progressive Party, which has maintained an anti-China stance by rejecting Beijing's insistence on Taiwan's inclusion as a part of China.
