Taiwan stays on high alert as Chinese ships pull back after massive drills

Wed Dec 31 03:22:50 UTC 2025: Summary:

China conducted large-scale military drills, named “Justice Mission 2025,” around Taiwan, prompting Taiwan to maintain a high state of alert. The drills involved rockets, warships, and aircraft, drawing international concern and condemnation from Taiwan. Although Chinese ships are moving away, Taiwan’s emergency response centres remain operational until China formally declares the end of the exercises. The drills, considered the most extensive to date, were interpreted by Chinese state media as a demonstration of China’s ability to isolate Taiwan and deny external intervention. The exercises occurred shortly after the U.S. announced a significant arms package for Taiwan.

News Article:

Taiwan Remains on Alert After China’s Massive Military Drills

Taipei, December 31, 2025 – Taiwan remained on high alert Wednesday following extensive military drills by China around the island. The exercises, dubbed “Justice Mission 2025,” involved dozens of rocket launches towards Taiwan and a large deployment of warships and aircraft, sparking concern among Western allies.

Taiwan condemned the drills as a blatant provocation and a threat to regional security. While Chinese ships are reportedly moving away from Taiwan, Taipei’s emergency maritime response centre remains operational, pending a formal announcement from Beijing regarding the end of the exercises.

According to Taiwan’s defence ministry, 77 Chinese military aircraft and 25 navy and coast guard vessels operated around the island in the past 24 hours, with 35 planes crossing the Taiwan Strait median line. The drills, the most extensive by coverage area to date, prompted flight cancellations and the mobilization of Taiwanese forces.

Chinese state media framed the exercises as a demonstration of the People’s Liberation Army’s ability to isolate Taiwan and prevent external interference. The drills occurred shortly after the United States announced a record $11.1 billion arms package for Taiwan, further escalating tensions in the region.

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