Taiwan's Determination Amid China's Military Drills

In response to China's military drills, Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te emphasized the island's determination to defend its sovereignty. He urged support for increased defense spending amid political challenges. Taiwan seeks peaceful cooperation with China, while rejecting claims of deceit from Beijing. The drills raise regional security concerns.

In a bold declaration, Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te reaffirmed the island's commitment to defending its sovereignty amid China's expanding military drills. After China launched rockets towards Taiwan as part of ongoing exercises, President Lai called for a united effort to enhance Taiwan's defense capabilities.

Speaking during a New Year's address broadcast live from Taipei, Lai urged opposition support for a proposed $40 billion increase in defense spending. This comes as Taiwan positions itself against increasing pressure from Beijing, which rejects Taiwan's sovereignty claims.

China's recent exercises, dubbed "Justice Mission 2025," involved massive military maneuvers aimed at discouraging outside intervention. The drills have escalated tensions and drawn international attention, with Western allies voicing concerns over regional security.

(With inputs from agencies.)