China sends 54 warplanes near Taiwan as warning

China conducted military exercises near Taiwan on Monday, sending over 50 warplanes as a response to Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te's stance on separatism. This marks an increase in Beijing's military activities around the self-governed island. Taiwan's defense ministry reported that 54 Chinese military planes and drones approached the island, prompting Taiwan to deploy its air and naval forces for monitoring. China has been conducting such drills regularly, approximately every 7-10 days. Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council criticized China's military threats, calling it a destabilizing force in the region. In response to China's influence campaigns, Taiwan has taken measures, including revoking a visa for a Chinese influencer who supported military action against the island.