China people Liberation Army sent a record 71 Warplanes near Taiwan on December 25 . 47 reportedly crossed the de facto border between the self-ruled island and mainland China . 7 warships were also dispatched during what Beijing called joint combat readiness drills .
The exercise was in retaliation to the US decision to increase military aid for Taiwan . The PLA had never before dispatched more aircraft towards Taiwan on a single day .
Shi Yi Spokesperson PLA Eastern Theatre Command Dec 25, 2022
It was a resolute response to the escalating collusion and provocation by the United States and Taiwan .”
US President Joe Biden signed the national defense authorisation act on December 23 . It includes provisions increase military aid and security cooperation for Taiwan . Taiwan defense ministry called the drills a violation of peace and stability in the region .
Beijing regard Taiwan as breakaway territory to be reunited by force if necessary . Most countries including the US do not consider Taiwan a sovereign state but many oppose possible attempts to take the island by force .
Beijing has been stepping up military pressure to assert its sovereignty claims . They included unprecedented five-fire drills around the island in August
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