China has launched new two-day military exercises encircling Taiwan, stating that the maneuvers are intended to "punish separatist actions." These drills began just days after the inauguration of the new president. The exercises, which commenced early Thursday, are the first major test for Lai Ching-te in managing the extremely strained relations with China since he assumed office as Taiwan’s new president on Monday. Despite never having controlled Taiwan, the Chinese government claims it as part of its territory, reports CNN.

The People's Liberation Army (PLA) Eastern Theater Command announced that joint military exercises involving the army, navy, air force, and rocket forces began in areas surrounding Taiwan on Thursday morning. These drills are being conducted in the Taiwan Strait, which separates Taiwan from mainland China, as well as north, south, and east of Taiwan. The exercises also extend to areas around the Taiwanese islands of Kinmen, Matsu, Wuqiu, and Dongyin, which are located just off the southeast coast of China, according to the command's statement, reports 24sata.hr.

Colonel Li Xi, a spokesperson for the command, described the exercises as a "strong punishment for the separatist acts of Taiwan independence forces and a serious warning against the interference and provocations of external forces."

Laija, who began his third consecutive term, is characterized by Beijing as a "dangerous separatist" for advocating Taiwanese sovereignty and a distinct identity. Beijing condemned Lai’s inaugural speech, during which he called on China to stop intimidating Taiwan, labeling Lai as "shameful."

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