China Conducts Military Drills Encircling Taiwan to Test Seizure Capabilities

China has launched two days of military drills encircling Taiwan as a "punishment" for the inauguration of Taiwan's new President Lai Ching-te, whom Beijing views as a separatist. The drills, involving the army, navy, air force, and rocket force, are seen as a test of China's ability to "seize power" over Taiwan. Taiwan's Defense Ministry has responded by dispatching its own forces and monitoring Chinese military movements. The escalation comes amid worsening relations and increased US support for Taiwan, further straining cross-strait ties.