Taiwan’s defense ministry has stated that China lacks the equipment to fully invade Taiwan but is using other tactics to threaten the island, such as inspecting foreign cargo ships. China has been increasing military and political pressure on Taiwan in recent years, despite Taiwan’s rejection of China’s claims.
While China has not renounced the use of force to bring Taiwan under its control, it currently does not have the formal combat capabilities for a comprehensive invasion of Taiwan. However, China is developing advanced weapons like the H-20 bomber and hypersonic missiles and increasing the number of nuclear warheads.
In May, China conducted war games around Taiwan, sending coast guard ships to practice interception and inspection drills off the east coast. The aim was to cut off communication with the outside world and blockade Taiwan, using tactics short of open conflict.
President Lai of Taiwan has proposed talks with Beijing but has been rebuffed, as China considers him a separatist. Taiwan’s proposed defense spending will increase next year to build more missiles, submarines, and other weapons to deter China. President Lai believes that peace achieved through strength is true peace and has vowed to continue improving Taiwan’s self-defense capabilities.
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