On April 1, 2025, the Trump administration reportedly issued a stern warning to China following its recent large-scale military exercises around Taiwan.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt reported that these drills included a significant show of force from China’s army, navy, air, and rocket forces, aimed at intimidating the democratic island of Taiwan.
Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defense observed 71 Chinese aircraft and 21 warships, including an aircraft carrier group, entering Taiwan’s air defense zone.
A spokesperson for the Chinese People’s Liberation Army indicated that the military exercises were a “severe warning” against Taiwanese independence.
During a press conference, Leavitt emphasized President Trump’s commitment to maintaining peace in the Taiwan Strait and reiterated the U.S. opposition to any unilateral actions that attempt to alter the current status quo through force or coercion.
The National Security Council has been actively briefing the administration on the escalating situation.
Leavitt highlighted the strategic partnership with Taiwan, noting the billions in military aid provided by the U.S., and stated that any threats toward Taipei are treated with “grave concern” under U.S. law.
Earlier this year, Trump and Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba released a joint statement opposing any forceful attempts by China to change the dynamics in the Taiwan Strait.
Additionally, Trump’s administration has moved to clarify its support for Taiwan by removing previous language from the State Department’s website that lacked endorsement of Taipei’s independence.
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has also engaged with Japanese and Philippine officials to reinforce U.S. military alliances aimed at countering China’s aggressive maneuvers.
In response, Taiwan’s Presidential Office condemned China’s military provocations as threats to regional peace and security, while Chinese officials maintained that their reunification with Taiwan is an inevitable goal.
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