Taiwan says Chinese military sent a record 153 planes toward island during war games

Taiwan’s defense ministry reported a surge in Chinese warplane activity around the island during recent war games, with a record 153 Chinese military aircraft detected. China conducted a day of drills as a warning against “separatist acts” following Taiwan President Lai Ching-te’s national day speech. The aircraft were spotted crossing the Taiwan Strait median line and in other sensitive areas. Premier Cho Jung-tai emphasized that China’s drills disturb peace and stability in the region and affect international navigational rights. Taiwan’s government rejects Beijing’s territorial claims and emphasizes that the island’s people should decide their future.