U.S. Criticizes China's Military Drills as Increasing 'Needless Tensions' Near Taiwan

Amid escalating regional tensions caused by Chinese military exercises near Taiwan, the U.S. State Department has expressed criticism, urging Beijing to halt its military pressure.

Expressing concern over China's military maneuvers and rhetoric in the region, State Department spokesperson, Tommy Pigott, called on China to show restraint and engage in constructive dialogue.

The U.S. stands for peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait, opposing any attempts to alter the status quo by force or pressure.

China regards Taiwan, which follows a democratic system, as a part of its territory, and has hinted at potentially using force for unification.

Recently, China launched missiles and dispatched fighter jets, naval ships, and coastguard units around Taiwan in an exercise dubbed "Justice Mission 2025," aimed at simulating a blockade of Taiwan's key ports.

Taiwanese authorities have labeled these drills as significantly provocative.

In response, former President Donald Trump downplayed concerns about the situation, suggesting a good rapport with Chinese President Xi Jinping and expressing skepticism about an invasion.

Trump pointed out the long-standing history of naval activities in the area, indicating that reactions to these events have shifted over time.

The U.S. maintains a decades-long commitment to support Taiwan's defense, without clearly stating whether it would militarily intervene in an attack scenario. This comes after the U.S. sanctioned an $11 billion arms deal for Taiwan.

China's recent exercises represent the sixth series of major military drills since 2022, which were previously triggered by a visit from then-U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi which angered Beijing.