China launches surprise military drills around Taiwan
Guardian2 days ago
China Launches Military Drills Around Taiwan
Above: An ROCN warship at a harbour in Keelung on April 1, 2025. Image copyright: I-HWA CHENG/Contributor/AFP via Getty Images
The Spin
Pro-China narrative
The PLA’s military exercises are a legitimate and necessary response to safeguard China’s sovereignty and national unity from Taiwan's separatist activities. Taiwan's leadership under Lai Ching-te has been deliberately provoking tensions through anti-China rhetoric and policies, making these defensive measures essential for maintaining regional stability.
Anti-China narrative
China’s escalating military activities pose not only a risk in the Taiwan Strait but threaten to plunge the entire region into chaos in their irresponsible pursuit of hegemony in the South China Sea. The Taiwanese, however, will not be so easily cowed by China’s belligerent stance and will rightfully stand firm to protect their sovereignty and democratic freedoms.