Taiwan detects CCP military presence ahead of 2024 election

TAIPEI (TVBS News) — With just six days until the 2024 election, the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) continues to disrupt Taiwan. The Taiwanese Ministry of National Defense (MND) announced on Sunday (Jan. 7) that it had detected eight military aircraft and six naval vessels of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) in the past 24 hours from 6 a.m. the previous day.

Additionally, it reported an unidentified balloon crossing the Taiwan Strait median line at 2:16 p.m. the previous day. The balloon was approximately 90 nautical miles west of Keelung and at a height of about 32,000 feet.

After the initial sighting, the balloon was observed drifting towards the East over the northern sea of Taiwan. The balloon disappeared from view at 4:07 p.m.

The MND denounced such activities by China, stating that they consistently undermine regional stability. The ministry underscored its unwavering commitment to maintaining regional peace and national security.

The MND added that the Republic of China Armed Forces will employ mission aircraft, naval vessels, and land-based missile systems to rigorously monitor and respond to activities by the CCP's military and naval vessels to safeguard Taiwan's sovereignty.

The MND stated that amidst interference from the Chinese PLA, they are determined to uphold Taiwan's state security and regional stability.