China Increases Military Pressure on Taiwan

Taiwanese officials are observing a significant increase in Chinese naval and military activity around the island, raising concerns about military pressure. China has deployed nearly 100 naval and coast guard vessels and declared 'reserved' airspace, actions viewed as a test of US air activity and a demonstration of force. This comes as Taiwan's opposition leader, Cheng Li-wun of the Taiwan===Kuomintang, visits China for talks with Xi Jinping, who reiterated China's stance against Taiwan's independence. Taiwan's Defence Minister, Wellington Koo, expressed alarm over China's expanding military capabilities and the threat it poses, urging Taiwan to show resolve in its defense. The situation is complicated by the Taiwan===Kuomintang's resistance to increased defense spending, despite calls from the United States. The timing coincides with the US focus on the Middle East and an upcoming meeting between Donald Trump and Xi Jinping.