China Concludes Drills as Taiwan Reports Increased Military Activity

China concluded two days of military exercises around Taiwan, simulating attacks and practicing ship boardings, which Taiwan condemned as blatant provocation. The drills, seen as a response to Taiwan President Lai Ching-te's inauguration speech, involved a significant surge of Chinese warplanes and warships. Taiwan's government criticized the exercises for undermining regional stability and provoking international concern. Despite the aggressive maneuvers, some Taiwanese officials noted the drills were more restrained compared to previous ones.