Escalating Tensions: China's Potential Military Drills Near Taiwan

China is anticipated to conduct military exercises near Taiwan, using Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te's visit to the Pacific and U.S. transit as a justification. This move follows previous military activities aimed at increasing pressure on Taipei and coincides with a transition in U.S. leadership.

China plans to escalate military drills near Taiwan, using Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te's visit to the Pacific as a pretext, according to security assessments by Taiwan and regional officials.

Lai's trip includes stops in U.S. territories after recent U.S. elections, while Beijing views Taiwan as a Chinese territory and is hostile towards Lai.

China may expand these drills, involving large naval resources, to assert its influence as the U.S. undergoes a leadership transition, signaling its strategic priorities to Washington and its allies.

(With inputs from agencies.)