On Monday, December 29, 2025, the Chinese mainland's defense ministry announced that the People's Liberation Army's Eastern Theater Command has kicked off joint drills dubbed “Justice Mission 2025”. These exercises are meant to deliver a clear message: any push for “Taiwan independence” or outside interference won’t be tolerated. ⚠️
Zhang Xiaogang, spokesperson for the ministry, responded to reports linking the drills to the recent U.S. decision to approve a large arms sale to the Taiwan region. “We urge relevant countries to abandon the illusion of using Taiwan to contain China and to refrain from challenging China's resolve in safeguarding its core interests,” he said.
Zhang also issued a heads-up to the Taiwan region's Democratic Progressive Party authorities that relying on external forces for a push toward “Taiwan independence” is a dead end. The PLA will keep up its drills and other measures to combat secession and external interference, firmly defending the Chinese mainland’s national sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity.
For students, entrepreneurs, and Asia-watchers, these developments are a reminder that cross-strait ties remain one of the most closely monitored flashpoints in global politics. With the U.S. stepping up arms sales and the PLA flexing its muscles, the region’s future hangs in the balance. What’s next? 🌏
Reference(s):
Ministry: Drills around Taiwan warn secession, external interference
cgtn.com
