Taipei [Taiwan], December 30: Taiwan announced that mainland China's military exercises around the island would affect flights for more than 100,000 passengers.
On December 29, the Eastern Theater Command of the Chinese military deployed warships, fighter jets, and other forces to participate in the "Justice Mission 2025" exercise surrounding Taiwan.
The exercise includes live-fire drills and will continue on December 30, taking place in seven designated areas around Taiwan .
Taiwan's transportation authority said more than 100,000 passengers on international flights would be affected, while 80 flights within the island are expected to be canceled, impacting around 6,000 passengers, according to Reuters.
Taiwan's aviation authority will divert international flights away from the danger zone or announce alternative routes to ensure air traffic safety.
Taiwan's Defense Ministry announced that it detected 89 Chinese military aircraft, 14 military vessels, and 14 coast guard ships operating around the island on December 29. At the same time, four other mainland warships were spotted in the western Pacific Ocean.
The military exercise took place after the US announced a $11.1 billion arms sale to Taiwan, its largest deal ever. China condemned the move and warned of strong countermeasures. Meanwhile, China and Japan have also been in a state of tension for weeks following Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi Sanae 's remarks regarding Taiwan.
Colonel Thi Nghi, spokesperson for China's Eastern Theater Command, said that during the exercise, the military focused on combat readiness patrols at sea and in the air, achieving overall superiority and blockading major seaports.
Mr. Thi declared this a stern warning to separatist forces demanding independence for Taiwan and to any external interference.
Source: Thanh Nien Newspaper
