"I have a strong relationship with Chinese President Xi Jinping, he hasn't told me anything about this matter," US President Donald Trump stated at a press conference at the Mar-a-Lago resort on 29/12, when asked to comment on the Chinese military's live-fire drills around Taiwan.

The American leader dismissed this activity as a signal of imminent conflict in the region. "President Xi hasn't told me anything about it, and I don't believe he would do so. I have nothing to worry about. They have conducted such drills for the past 20-25 years. Now people perceive such actions a little differently," he said.

President Trump at Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida on 28/12. Photo: Reuters

Trump's statement contrasts sharply with the report on China's military strength that the Pentagon presented to the US Congress on 23/12.

In this document, the US Department of Defense assessed that China "expects to be able to conduct military operations related to Taiwan by the end of 2027 and achieve victory." Beijing appears to have spent the past year "perfecting key elements" for this effort, including seeking to blockade and attack Washington's forces in the Pacific.

Chinese officials called the Pentagon's report "groundless."

The Chinese military on 29/12 began a large-scale exercise, "Mission Justice 2025," in the Taiwan Strait and areas to the north, southwest, southeast, and east of the island.

This activity involved the navy, army, air force, and missile forces, focusing on operations such as combat readiness patrols at sea and in the air, joint superiority, blockading key ports and areas, and comprehensive deterrence beyond the island chain.

China views this exercise as a "stern warning to 'Taiwan independence' separatist forces, as well as a legitimate and necessary action to protect China's sovereignty and national unity."

Karen Kuo, spokesperson for Taiwan's leader's office, condemned the exercise as an act that "disregards international norms and uses military means for intimidation." Taiwan's defense forces stated they established a response center, deployed forces, and conducted rapid response drills.

Location of the five areas where the Chinese military will conduct live-fire drills around Taiwan on 30/12. Graphic: China's Eastern Theater Command

China has always considered Taiwan inseparable territory and is ready to use all means to unify it. Chinese leaders have also repeatedly affirmed that they do not rule out using force to reclaim the island, though the general principle remains dialogue and peaceful unification.

The last time China conducted large-scale live-fire drills around Taiwan was in April. This event occurred after China announced it would take "resolute and strong measures" to protect its territory, following US approval of an arms sale of nearly USD 11 billion to Taiwan.

Huyen Le, AFP, SCMP