Taiwan trains forces for rapid response to China

Taiwan is conducting military exercises to prepare its forces for a quick response in case of an attack from China. The exercises come after Beijing sent military aircraft and warships near Taiwan, which it called a punishment for comments made by Taiwan's president. Defence Minister Wellington Koo stated that these drills aim to enhance Taiwan’s ability to mobilise swiftly against threats. He noted that the Chinese military could launch an attack faster than previously anticipated, emphasizing that Taiwan must be ready for the worst. Recently, Taiwan's President William Lai described China as a "foreign hostile force." He expressed concerns about China's efforts to undermine Taiwan's democracy by infiltrating its society with various influences, including media and military personnel. In response to espionage cases involving Taiwanese military members accused of spying for China, Lai announced plans to restore Taiwan's military court system. His government is also focused on limiting the activities of Taiwanese who have Chinese national identities and monitoring government officials’ visits to the mainland. The Chinese government reacted strongly to Lai's comments, warning that it would take serious actions if Taiwan crosses certain lines. Lai's assertive approach to Taiwan's sovereignty has been met with criticism from the opposition party, the Kuomintang (KMT), which advocates for closer ties with Beijing but opposes reunification. Recently, the KMT searched parliament member Fu Kun-chi's office concerning campaign materials suspected to be linked to Chinese support. The KMT is also preparing to propose a referendum on Lai's plans to reinstate military tribunals, raising concerns over authoritarianism within Lai's party, the Democratic Progressive Party.