Taiwans defence officials keep close watch on Chinese warship movements specially the aircraft carrier Liaoning which operates in nearby waters (this comes as part of their day-to-day monitoring tasks)
The timing is linked to Lai Ching-teʼs upcoming Pacific-region trip: intelligence sources think China might start practice-runs as soon as next week-end. The Chinese govt sees Lai as trouble-maker despite his peace-focused statements
A busy scene unfolds in regional waters; Russian ships joined Chinese vessels for joint-exercises near Taiwanʼs south-east area. The mix includes:
- 3 Russian war-ships
- 1 supply boat
- About 40 Chinese vessels
- The Liaoning carrier group
Defense ministry speaker Sun Li-fang explains their position: “we take enemy movements seriously; our prep-work is solid – we dont worry about threats.“ China hasnt answered questions about these activities yet
Intel experts point to unusual winter-time activities: China seems to be testing its all-weather combat skills. A fleet of Russian ships moved north after doing mock-attacks with Chinese forces; this shows growing military cooperation between both countries
The whole situation connects to mainland-Chinas views on Taiwan which it sees as its territory. Last years October exercises showed similar patterns – now experts think new drills could happen during cold season