White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt has issued a strong warning to China following its recent military exercises around Taiwan. These drills, which involve China’s army, navy, air, and rocket forces, are seen as a show of strength aimed at the self-governing island.
Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defense reported tracking 71 Chinese aircraft and 21 warships, including an aircraft carrier group, entering Taiwan’s air defense zone. A spokesperson for China’s military claimed the exercises were a "severe warning" against Taiwan’s independence.
During a press conference, Leavitt emphasized President Trump’s commitment to peace in the Taiwan Strait. She stated that the U.S. opposes any forceful attempts to change the current situation. The National Security Council has briefed the administration on the escalating tensions.
Leavitt highlighted Taiwan’s importance as a strategic partner, noting that the U.S. provides significant military aid to the island. U.S. law mandates that threats to Taiwan are treated with serious concern. In February, Trump and Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba jointly opposed any Chinese efforts to alter the status quo in the region.
Additionally, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth recently met with officials from Japan and the Philippines to strengthen military alliances in response to China’s aggressive actions. Taiwan’s Presidential Office condemned China’s military provocations, stating they threaten peace in the Taiwan Strait and regional security.
China considers Taiwan its territory and has repeatedly threatened to take control by force. A spokesperson for the Chinese Communist Party asserted that "reunification" with Taiwan is inevitable. The situation remains tense as both sides prepare for potential escalations.