China's military surrounds Taiwan as 'punishment'
The Hindu
China conducts military drills around Taiwan to intimidate after new President vows to defend democracy, escalating tensions.
China on May 23 encircled Taiwan with naval vessels and military aircraft in war games aimed at punishing the self-ruled island after its new President vowed to defend democracy.
The two days of drills are part of an escalating campaign of intimidation by China that has seen it carry out a series of large-scale military exercises around Taiwan in recent years.
The latest show of force is a "strong punishment for the separatist acts of 'Taiwan independence' forces," China's military said as the drills got underway.
China— governed by the Communist Party since 1949— claims Taiwan as part of its territory and has vowed to bring the island under its rule, by force if necessary.
May 23 and May 24 drills involve aircraft and ships surrounding the island to test their combat capabilities, China's People's Liberation Army (PLA) said.
Taiwan responded by deploying air, ground and sea forces, with the island's defence ministry vowing to "defend freedom".
Taiwan's presidential spokeswoman also condemned China's "provocative military behaviour".
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov praises U.S. President Donald Trump for acknowledging NATO support as a cause of war in Ukraine.
President Trump emphasizes reciprocal tariffs with India, stating "whatever you charge, I'm charging," during Fox News interview.
IAEA monitors Japan's Fukushima decommissioning, as Japan plans to increase reliance on nuclear power for energy needs.
Meta has announced their LlamaCon developer conference to be held on April 29
Brazilian President Lula da Silva faces plummeting popularity, economic challenges, and political opposition as he navigates his presidency.
North Korea criticizes US and allies for denuclearization efforts, vows to expand nuclear forces under Kim Jong Un.
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar to attend G20 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in South Africa, strengthening India's global engagement.
New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters calls for a reset in relationship with Cook Islands over China agreements.
President Trump orders firing of all remaining U.S. attorneys nominated by Biden, citing politicization of Department of Justice.
Man convicted for throwing pipe bomb at former Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, sentenced to 10 years in prison.
Judge denies restraining order against Elon Musk and DOGE, citing lack of evidence for legal harm.
Brazil's former President Bolsonaro charged with coup attempt, poisoning plot, and murder plan after 2022 election defeat.
Declining marriages and population in China pose economic and social challenges, with government policies failing to address root causes.