China has launched large-scale military exercises around Taiwan aimed at blockading key ports and territories, Reuters reports

China has launched large-scale military exercises around Taiwan aimed at blockading key ports and territories, Reuters reports. Beijing said it was a warning against “separatist actions“ by Taiwan independence supporters and a necessary measure to protect China’s sovereignty. The exercises cover the Taiwan Strait and areas north, south and east of the island, and involve the aircraft carrier Liaoning. Chinese ships and aircraft are approaching the island “in close proximity from multiple directions,“ focusing on maritime and air combat readiness patrols, attacking sea and land targets, and “jointly pursuing comprehensive superiority,“ the Chinese command said. Taiwan calls the moves a “blatant provocation“ that undermines regional peace and has called an emergency cabinet meeting. Source: Intel Slava Z