Taiwan refutes claims of escalating military deployments on frontier islands

There has been no increase in military activity on islands near China, Taiwan’s Defense Ministry says

Taiwan has not escalated military presence on islands facing China, and the military situation around Taiwan is deemed normal, Taiwan’s Defense Ministry said Wesndesday. 

Tensions have risen with Beijing, particularly following the election of President Lai Ching-te, whom China views as a separatist threat.  

China’s coast guard has increased patrols around Taiwan-controlled Kinmen islands, prompting concerns. Despite these developments, Defense Ministry officials reassured that there is no unusual activity in China’s military movements around Taiwan and no increase in Taiwan’s deployments on offshore islands.  

They emphasized the importance of maintaining stability and readiness while avoiding further escalation. The U.S. State Department has urged restraint and respect for the status quo. Kinmen, a strategically located island near China, has historical significance and remains under Taiwanese control.  

Despite recent incidents, residents and experts believe that the situation is manageable and not indicative of a major conflict. Taiwan maintains its stance on sovereignty and the right of its people to determine their future. 

Source: Reuters