US expresses concern over China's largest military exercises around Taiwan and urges dialogue
Washington, January 02. The United States has expressed concern regarding China's largest-ever military exercises around Taiwan, stating that Beijing's actions and rhetoric could unnecessarily escalate tensions in the region. Reacting to these exercises, Principal Deputy Spokesperson for the US Department of State, Tommy Pigott, stated that China should step back from military pressure and adopt the path of dialogue.
In a statement issued on January 1, the official mentioned that China's military activities are creating unnecessary stress for Taiwan and surrounding countries. As per agency report, the US has appealed to Beijing to exercise restraint, end military pressure on Taiwan, and initiate meaningful dialogue. This statement comes at a time when China completed major military exercises named Justice Mission 2025. These drills took place between December 29 and December 31, involving coordinated operations by the People's Liberation Army's Army, Navy, Air Force, and Rocket Forces.
The exercises simulated a siege-like situation around Taiwan, including scenarios such as blocking major ports, conducting precision strikes, and disrupting supply routes. According to the Taiwan administration, activities of 77 Chinese military aircraft and 17 naval vessels were recorded during this period. In response, Taiwan scrambled fighter jets and took security measures, which included placing barriers like explosive barrels at river mouths as part of their preparations. Several US allies also expressed concern regarding the scale and timing of these exercises. The European Union, Britain, Japan, and Australia expressed discomfort over the increasing military pressure in the Taiwan Strait, noting that such activities increase the risk of miscalculation.
China described these exercises as a warning to separatist forces. Beijing also linked this to defense cooperation between the US and Taiwan, which includes recent major sales of American weapons to Taiwan. China maintains that its military activities around Taiwan are a response to external interference. The US reiterated its support for peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait and opposed any attempt to change the existing situation through force or pressure, citing its connection to international trade, supply systems, and regional security.
Chinese President Xi Jinping reiterated the goal of reunification with Taiwan in his New Year message. However, the Taiwanese government has rejected Beijing's sovereignty claims, asserting that only the people of the island can decide its future. Taiwan has been governed separately from mainland China since 1949 and has developed its own democratic political system, military, and economy, although China considers it a breakaway province and has consistently reiterated the goal of integrating it into the mainland. A recent independent report stated that this is part of China's broader strategy to build pressure in maritime areas. The report also noted that the US has long emphasized that regional disputes should be resolved under international law and without coercion to maintain freedom of maritime and aerial navigation.
