PLA launches military drills around Taiwan, raising tensions

TAIPEI (TVBS News) — In a significant escalation of tensions, the People's Liberation Army announced on Tuesday (May 23) that it had launched the military exercises around Taiwan, a move that the Executive Yuan says has prompted the Ministry of National Defense (MND) to affirm the military's capability and confidence in ensuring national security and defending sovereignty.

The exercises, dubbed "Joint Sword-2024A, (聯合利劍－2024A)" aim to penalize pro-independence forces in Taiwan and serve as a stern warning against external interference, starting from 7:45 a.m. and continuing until May 24.

Ensuring Safety Amid Tensions

Despite the looming military activities, Han Chen-hua (韓振華), the transport division deputy director, assured that aircraft and ships would continue to operate as planned. The Civil Aeronautics Administration (民航局) and the Maritime Port Bureau (航港局) are closely monitoring the situation, especially the dynamics of aircraft within the Taipei Flight Information Region, to provide timely air traffic services and ensure the safety of all flights.

The government has called for heightened vigilance in response to the People's Liberation Army's exercises. By maintaining a close watch on the developments and ensuring the uninterrupted operation of transportation services, Taiwan demonstrates its resilience and preparedness in the face of challenges to its security and sovereignty.