China's Foreign Ministry Condemns Taiwan Inauguration, US Warnings Over South China Sea Standoff

China's Foreign Ministry criticized Taiwan's presidential inauguration and disregarded US calls for restraint after Chinese military drills in the vicinity of Taiwan. Tensions escalated between China and Taiwan, with Taiwan reporting Chinese planes crossing the median line in the Taiwan Strait, prompting deep concern from the US.

China's Foreign Ministry has denounced Taiwan's presidential inauguration and downplayed US warnings regarding its military drills near Taiwan. The ongoing tensions in the South China Sea have further strained relations between the two countries.

On Friday, numerous Chinese navy ships and warplanes were detected near Taiwan's coastline, prompting concern among Taiwanese authorities. According to Taiwanese military sources, 49 Chinese warplanes and 19 navy vessels were counted, with 35 planes flying across the median line, which separates the two countries.

These drills follow Taiwan's presidential inauguration ceremony on Friday, which has been condemned by the Chinese Foreign Ministry. Wang Wenbin, the ministry's spokesperson, asserted China's sovereignty over Taiwan and criticized the US for its previous calls for restraint.

The US State Department, through spokesperson Matthew Miller, expressed deep concern over China's military exercises. Miller urged Beijing to exercise restraint, expressing that such provocations could escalate tensions and erode norms that have maintained peace in the Taiwan Strait.

However, Wang Wenbin dismissed these concerns, stating the US was in no position to make irresponsible remarks. The drills, according to China, are purely defensive in nature and are aimed at safeguarding its interests.

Former Taiwanese navy captain Lu Li Shih believes that China is preparing for a potential conflict based on the scale of its military buildup. He highlighted the increased number of military vessels and the recruitment of additional personnel, indicating a focus on self-defense and territorial claims.

In response to the drills, the US has warned China to act with restraint, emphasizing the need to maintain peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait. The US has also coordinated with regional allies and partners to address the developments.

Furthermore, the Biden administration has imposed sanctions on former Republican Rep. Mike Gallagher for his support of Taiwan's president, Tsai Ing-wen. This action reflects the escalating tensions between China and the US over Taiwan, which has become a major flashpoint in bilateral relations.