China sends warplanes to Taiwan after Xi-Biden call

China’s display of military force around Taiwan escalated significantly this week, with reports of dozens of warplanes and multiple naval ships encircling the island.

• Dozens of Chinese warplanes and naval ships were detected around Taiwan, marking a significant show of force.

• The display of military power followed a phone call between Chinese President Xi Jinping and U.S. President Joe Biden, the first since mid-2022.

• Tensions over Taiwan have intensified, with the U.S. reiterating its commitment to defend the island against any Chinese aggression.

The Taiwanese Ministry of National Defense reported at least 30 Chinese warplanes and nine naval vessels detected within Taiwan’s air defense identification zone (ADIZ).

The incursion prompted a response from Taiwan’s armed forces, which monitored the situation and deployed appropriate measures in response.

The display of military power coincided with a phone call between Chinese President Xi Jinping and U.S. President Joe Biden, their first conversation since mid-2022.

While details of the call remain undisclosed, it was expected to cover topics such as Taiwan, narcotics, artificial intelligence, and China’s support for Russia amid the conflict with Ukraine.

Chinese jet came within 10 feet of U.S. military aircraft, U.S. …

Routine check-in

The White House characterised the call as a routine “check-in” between the two leaders.

However, tensions surrounding Taiwan have escalated in recent months, with Biden previously referring to Xi as a “dictator” amid concerns over Chinese aggression.

The U.S. has reiterated its commitment to defend Taiwan against any Chinese invasion, but the White House has tempered such statements, indicating a cautious approach to the volatile situation.

As China’s military maneuvers heighten tensions in the region, the international community closely monitors developments, aware of the potential implications for regional stability and global geopolitics.