Taiwan Strait: Chinese military drills simulate port blockade
China launched Mission Justice 2025, a large-scale military exercise, on 29 December, conducting live-fire drills simulating a blockade of Taiwan’s main ports. Over three days, Beijing deployed missiles, dozens of fighter jets, warships, and coast guard vessels around the island. The primary objective, according to Chinese authorities, was to test integrated air–sea coordination, maritime control, and blockade capabilities. China considers Taiwan part of its sovereign territory and has not ruled out the use of force to seize the democratic island, increasing concerns over Taiwan Strait security and regional maritime stability.
International reactions and strategic tensions
The drills drew criticism from France and Germany, which warned that such maneuvers undermine stability in the Taiwan Strait. The European Union also stated that the exercises endanger international peace, while reaffirming its commitment to maintaining the status quo around Taiwan. In contrast, former U.S. president Donald Trump downplayed the situation, noting that China has conducted naval drills in the area for decades. The exercises followed a $11.1 billion U.S. arms sale to Taiwan, the largest since 2001, sharply criticized by Beijing.
Maritime trade and blockade claims
The Taiwan Strait is a vital maritime corridor, carrying around 20% of global container traffic, while Taiwan produces over 90% of the world’s most advanced semiconductors. Taipei declared the simulated blockade a failure, stating that Chinese forces did not effectively close its ports. Taiwanese coast guards maintained eleven vessels at sea, noting that some Chinese ships remained beyond the 24-nautical-mile line. Regional actors including Japan, Australia, and the Philippines expressed concern over rising tensions. China announced the successful conclusion of the drills on 31 December, but the episode highlighted ongoing risks to maritime trade, regional security, and global supply chains.
