China criticizes Taiwan military drills as tensions rise

Military people of Taiwanese Military Police

China criticizes Taiwan military drills as tensions remain high

BEIJING — August 14, 2026

China has criticized Taiwan’s annual Han Kuang military drills, calling the exercises unnecessary and accusing Taiwan’s government of increasing tensions across the Taiwan Strait. The comments came as Taiwan completed 10 days of military exercises designed to prepare for possible Chinese military action.

China’s Defence Ministry said the drills were a political display that could increase public concern about the risk of conflict. Ministry spokesperson Chen Xi said the People’s Liberation Army remained prepared to respond to what Beijing describes as separatism and outside involvement in Taiwan.

Taiwan began the exercises last week as China continued its frequent military activity around the island. The drills included scenarios involving a possible Chinese attempt to impose a maritime blockade, as well as efforts to maintain communications if internet services were disrupted.

This year’s exercises also included training on slowing mobile internet access, reflecting Taiwan’s preparations for possible disruptions to civilian communications during a conflict. The drills are intended to test how Taiwan’s armed forces and wider society could respond to different military and security threats.

Taiwan is a self-governed democracy that rejects Beijing’s claim of sovereignty over the island. China considers Taiwan part of its territory and has not ruled out using force to bring it under its control, although Beijing says it prefers peaceful reunification.

Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te said the completion of the exercises would not end efforts to strengthen the island’s defence. He said the government, military and public would continue preparing to protect Taiwan’s democratic system and maintain stability across the Taiwan Strait.

Relations between Beijing and Taipei have remained tense, with Chinese military aircraft and naval forces operating regularly around Taiwan. Beijing has increased pressure on the island in recent years, while Taiwan has expanded its preparations for a potential conflict.

China’s latest comments underline the continuing disagreement over Taiwan’s security and political future. While Taiwan says stronger defence capabilities are necessary to protect its people, Beijing maintains that military pressure is part of its effort to oppose what it calls moves toward Taiwanese independence.