Chinese military launches large-scale drills around Taiwan

TAIPEI — The Chinese military announced large-scale drills in the waters around Taiwan on Tuesday, as it warned the self-ruled island against seeking independence.

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The joint exercises involve navy, air, ground and rocket forces and are meant to be a "severe warning and forceful containment against Taiwan independence," according to Shi Yi, a spokesperson for the People's Liberation Army's Eastern Theater Command.

China considers Taiwan a part of its territory, to be brought under its control by force if necessary, while most Taiwanese favor their de facto independence and democratic status.