A top U.S. military commander has warned that recent Chinese military exercises near Taiwan are increasingly resembling rehearsals for a full-scale invasion, heightening concerns over regional security and the potential for conflict in the Indo-Pacific.
Admiral John Aquilino, head of the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, said on Tuesday that the scope and intensity of China’s military maneuvers — which include coordinated air and naval operations encircling Taiwan — suggest more than mere training or deterrence.
“These actions appear to be rehearsals for a potential future invasion,” Admiral Aquilino said during a congressional hearing. “The scale, complexity, and integration of their forces are unprecedented, and we are watching closely.”
Tensions between China and Taiwan have escalated in recent years, with Beijing increasing its military pressure on the self-governed island, which it views as a breakaway province. Taiwan, however, maintains its autonomy and has received growing support from Western allies, particularly the United States.
China has defended its military actions as necessary to counter “foreign interference” and to uphold its sovereignty. A spokesperson for the Chinese Ministry of National Defense described the latest drills as “a warning against collusion” between Taiwan and outside powers.
The U.S. has continued to affirm its commitment to maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. However, Admiral Aquilino emphasized the need for continued investment in deterrence capabilities, citing the narrowing timeline in which China may seek to use force.
“We must be prepared for any scenario,” he said, urging lawmakers to back increased defense funding for the Pacific theater.
The statement marks one of the clearest acknowledgments from a senior U.S. official that China may be moving beyond pressure tactics and preparing for a potential military confrontation over Taiwan.
source: Focustiwan.tw