US President Joe Biden has now stated that US forces will defend the Taiwan from the 'unprecedented attack' from China but would not encourage independence as it is Taiwan's own decision. WION's correspondent Susan Tehrani brings you more.

WION Dispatch | 'Will defend Taiwan but not encourage independence,' says Joe Biden

The entry of Chinese drones into Taiwanese airspace has become quite a common phenomenon in the last few months. However, not all of them belong to the military&nbsp;as the Chinese social media is filled with videos of civilians flying their drones near the Kinmen Islands and it has led to a situation that experts are calling “deniable harassment”. While Taiwan has decided to take a stricter approach towards the incursions, China continues to call it "no big deal" reinforcing the claim on the island nation.&nbsp;

Paul Huang, a research fellow at the Taiwanese Public Opinion Foundation – a government think tank in China, told CNN that he believes most drones are actually controlled by civilians. &nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/xi-jinping-warned-of-investor-fallout-by-joe-biden-if-china-backs-russias-war-517490">Biden warns Jinping, says US forces would help defend Taiwan against China</a>

"Flying that close to a Taiwanese military guard post and catching their attention ...That's not really the way any military would deploy or utilize their drones. And frankly, I don't see any good reason that the (People's Liberation Army) would even attempt something like that," Huang said.&nbsp;

The tensions between the two countries flared once again when United States House Speaker Nancy Pelosi visited Taiwan and said that the United States will help them. Since then, the military drills have increased and Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen called&nbsp;the drones China’s "gray-zone" warfare tactics.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/27-dead-in-china-after-bus-taking-people-to-covid-19-quarantine-facility-crashes-517528">27 dead in China after bus taking people to Covid quarantine facility crashes</a>

However, the increase in civilian drones has made life difficult for the Taiwanese forces. The common design of drones may it difficult to understand whether they are being controlled by actual civilians or the military. As a result, they have to use a lot of resources to track and shoot down most of them.&nbsp;

On the other hand, the experts in Taiwan believe that this is just another tactic from China to continuously bother the forces near the border and claim victory in a so-called "propaganda war".&nbsp;

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The entry of Chinese drones into Taiwanese airspace has become quite a common phenomenon in the last few months. However, not all of them belong to the military as the Chinese social media is filled with videos of civilians flying their drones near the Kinmen Islands and it has led to a situation that experts are calling “deniable harassment”.

The entry of Chinese drones into Taiwanese airspace has become quite a common phenomenon in the last few months. However, not all of them belong to the military as the Chinese social media is filled with videos of civilians flying their drones near the Kinmen Islands and it has led to a situation that experts are calling “deniable harassment”. While Taiwan has decided to take a stricter approach towards the incursions, China continues to call it "no big deal" reinforcing the claim on the island nation. Paul Huang, a research fellow at the Taiwanese Public Opinion Foundation – a government think tank in China, told CNN that he believes most drones are actually controlled by civilians. Also read | Biden warns Jinping, says US forces would help defend Taiwan against China "Flying that close to a Taiwanese military guard post and catching their attention ...That's not really the way any military would deploy or utilize their drones. And frankly, I don't see any good reason that the (People's Liberation Army) would even attempt something like that," Huang said. The tensions between the two countries flared once again when United States House Speaker Nancy Pelosi visited Taiwan and said that the United States will help them. Since then, the military drills have increased and Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen called the drones China’s "gray-zone" warfare tactics. Also read | 27 dead in China after bus taking people to Covid quarantine facility crashes However, the increase in civilian drones has made life difficult for the Taiwanese forces. The common design of drones may it difficult to understand whether they are being controlled by actual civilians or the military. As a result, they have to use a lot of resources to track and shoot down most of them. On the other hand, the experts in Taiwan believe that this is just another tactic from China to continuously bother the forces near the border and claim victory in a so-called "propaganda war".

Chinese civilian drones slowly becoming new headache for Taiwanese military

In Pics| Powerful earthquake hits Southeast Taiwan, nearly 146 injured 

A day after remarking that the US would defend Taiwan if China attacks the island nation, the Chinese foreign ministry has given a rather 'stern' reply to US President Joe Biden.

A day after remarking that the US would defend Taiwan if China attacks the island nation, the Chinese foreign ministry has given a rather 'stern' reply to US President Joe Biden. Reportedly, Mao Ning, spokesperson at the Chinese foreign ministry during a media briefing stated that China reserves the right to take necessary measures aimed at culling secessionist activities in Taiwan. "We are willing to do our best to strive for peaceful reunification. At the same time, we will not tolerate any activities aimed at secession," said Mao. Urging Washington to handle the issue 'carefully and properly' Mao further asserted that the US should not send 'wrong signals' to Taiwan's secessionist forces. "There is only one China in the world, Taiwan is part of China, and the government of the People's Republic of China is the only legitimate government of China." Mao signed off by saying. As reported by WION, on Sunday, during an interview with CBS, Biden was asked if American forces would defend Taiwan in the event of a Chinese invasion. In reply, the US president gave an affirmative answer. "Yes, if in fact there was an unprecedented attack." said Biden. WATCH | 'US forces would defend Taiwan,' states US President Joe Biden × However, in the same interview, Biden iterated his commitment to the 'One-China' policy that Washington has been following for years. “We agree with what we signed onto a long time ago. And that there’s ‘one-China’ policy, and Taiwan makes their own judgments about their independence. We are not moving. We’re not encouraging their being independent. That’s their decision." added President Biden. Read more: Biden warns Jinping, says US forces would help defend Taiwan against China It is pertinent to note that the US recognises the 'one-China' policy espoused by Beijing. However, simultaneously, it maintains unofficial relations with Taiwan while not recognising China's sovereignty over the island state. The recent visit by US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi was a major flashpoint that created conditions pre-cursor to that of a full-fledged war. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

China replies after Biden's 'will defend Taiwan' remark

In what could be viewed as his most explicit statement, US President Joe Biden said that the US forces will defend Taiwan in the event of the Chinese invasion. However, he also said that it will defend Taiwan in the case if Chinese invasion takes place but will not support the self-ruled island's independence.

'US forces would defend Taiwan,' states US President Joe Biden

Taiwanese journalist Paul Huang said that statements like what US President Joe Biden has made helps strengthen public confidence. However, he also said that immediately after the Ukraine war Taiwanese public confidence in US military collapsed.

'It helps strengthen public confidence,' Taiwan's Paul Huang on Biden's 'defend Taiwan' statement

A 6.9-magnitude earthquake struck Taitung county on Sunday and tremors also felt in multiple Chinese cities. 20 passengers have been rescued from derailed train in Hulein. Taiwan president has urged people to be vigilant.

Taiwan: 6.9 magnitude quake hits Taitung county; train derails after collision with concrete

The US Geological Survey stated that a severe earthquake struck Taiwan's southeast coast on Sunday (Sept 18), damaging at least one building in a village.

The USGS reported that the earthquake struck at 2:44 pm at a depth of 10 km, about 50 km north of Taitung, AFP reported. The department initially marked the initial strength of the earthquake to be 7.2 magnitudes but later lowered it to 6.9, AFP reported.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/trains-flights-halted-as-japan-prepares-for-typhoon-nanmadol-thousands-in-shelter-517271">Also read |&nbsp;Trains, flights halted as Japan prepares for typhoon Nanmadol, thousands in shelter &nbsp;</a>

The village of Yuli experienced at least one structural fall, Taiwan's semi-official Central News Agency reported. A video was uploaded by the news agency that showed panicked residents running towards the collapsed building as it blew up a dense cloud of dust.&nbsp;

Earlier, in this steep, thinly populated area, there had been numerous tremors since a 6.6-magnitude earthquake struck the same area on Saturday. However, Sunday's earthquake was more intense and stronger than the previous one.&nbsp;

Remote islands close to Taiwan have received a tsunami warning from Japan's Meteorological Agency. Waves up to one metre high are expected to reach around 4:00 p, according to the department. High waves were seen approaching the islands in live TV footage from the.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/how-could-the-us-sanction-china-to-deter-a-taiwan-attack-516912">Also read |&nbsp;How could the US sanction China to deter a Taiwan attack?</a>

As per the China Earthquake Network Centre, regions like Fujian, Jiangsu, and Shanghai also felt some vibrations.&nbsp;

The deadliest earthquake Taiwan ever experienced was of 7.6 magnitudes in 1999, which claimed the lives of over 2,000 people.&nbsp;

Taiwan, due to its location close to the meeting point of two tectonic plates, experiences earthquakes very frequently. The island is located on the Pacific "Ring of Fire," a region of extremely active earthquakes.

(With inputs from agencies)

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The US Geological Survey stated that a severe earthquake struck Taiwan's southeast coast on Sunday (Sept 18), damaging at least one building in a village. The USGS reported that the earthquake struck at 2:44 pm at a depth of 10 km, about 50 km north of Taitung, AFP reported.

The US Geological Survey stated that a severe earthquake struck Taiwan's southeast coast on Sunday (Sept 18), damaging at least one building in a village. The USGS reported that the earthquake struck at 2:44 pm at a depth of 10 km, about 50 km north of Taitung, AFP reported. The department initially marked the initial strength of the earthquake to be 7.2 magnitudes but later lowered it to 6.9, AFP reported. Also read | Trains, flights halted as Japan prepares for typhoon Nanmadol, thousands in shelter The village of Yuli experienced at least one structural fall, Taiwan's semi-official Central News Agency reported. A video was uploaded by the news agency that showed panicked residents running towards the collapsed building as it blew up a dense cloud of dust. Earlier, in this steep, thinly populated area, there had been numerous tremors since a 6.6-magnitude earthquake struck the same area on Saturday. However, Sunday's earthquake was more intense and stronger than the previous one. Remote islands close to Taiwan have received a tsunami warning from Japan's Meteorological Agency. Waves up to one metre high are expected to reach around 4:00 p, according to the department. High waves were seen approaching the islands in live TV footage from the. Also read | How could the US sanction China to deter a Taiwan attack? As per the China Earthquake Network Centre, regions like Fujian, Jiangsu, and Shanghai also felt some vibrations. The deadliest earthquake Taiwan ever experienced was of 7.6 magnitudes in 1999, which claimed the lives of over 2,000 people. Taiwan, due to its location close to the meeting point of two tectonic plates, experiences earthquakes very frequently. The island is located on the Pacific "Ring of Fire," a region of extremely active earthquakes. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Powerful earthquake of 6.9 magnitude hits Taiwan's southeast coast; tremors felt in China too

The US Geological Survey reported that a 6.6-magnitude earthquake occurred on Saturday near the east coast of Taiwan.&nbsp;

According to the USGS, the earthquake struck at about 9:30 p.m. (1330 GMT) about 50 km (30 miles) north of Taitung, a coastal city, at a depth of 10 km.&nbsp;

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
Taiwan has just had an earthquake, and the video shows waves in the hot pot restrant. 
I also felt the earthquake in Taizhou!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/taiwan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#taiwan</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/earthquake?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#earthquake</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/%E5%8F%B0%E6%B9%BE%E5%9C%B0%E9%9C%87?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#台湾地震</a> <a href="https://t.co/XDPn5qH3T3">pic.twitter.com/XDPn5qH3T3</a>
— 莎莎大国王 King （💯互fo） (@luckylinsa) <a href="https://twitter.com/luckylinsa/status/1571159384645853190?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">September 17, 2022</a></blockquote>
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Initial reports from local media stated that the earthquake caused no injuries or damage.&nbsp;

The magnitude was somewhat lower, at 6.4, according to Taiwan's Central Weather Bureau, but it was shallower at 7.3 kilometres.

Because Taiwan is located close to the meeting point of two tectonic plates, earthquakes frequently strike the island.&nbsp;

Unless a quake is stronger than magnitude 7.0, the island does not send tsunami alerts.&nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/putin-is-isolating-himself-white-house-weighs-in-after-pm-modis-message-to-putin-517008">'Putin is isolating himself', says White House stressing on PM Modi's message to Russian President</a>

Although a lot depends on where and how deep the earthquake occurs, some earthquakes with a magnitude of 6.0 or higher can be fatal.&nbsp;

However, the USGS predicted a low probability of mortality on Saturday, though it warned that some damage was conceivable.

(with inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe>

The US Geological Survey reported that a 6.6-magnitude earthquake occurred on Saturday near the east coast of Taiwan. According to the USGS, the earthquake struck at about 9:30 p.

The US Geological Survey reported that a 6.6-magnitude earthquake occurred on Saturday near the east coast of Taiwan. According to the USGS, the earthquake struck at about 9:30 p.m. (1330 GMT) about 50 km (30 miles) north of Taitung, a coastal city, at a depth of 10 km. Taiwan has just had an earthquake, and the video shows waves in the hot pot restrant. I also felt the earthquake in Taizhou!#taiwan #earthquake #台湾地震 pic.twitter.com/XDPn5qH3T3 — 莎莎大国王 King （💯互fo） (@luckylinsa) September 17, 2022 × Initial reports from local media stated that the earthquake caused no injuries or damage. The magnitude was somewhat lower, at 6.4, according to Taiwan's Central Weather Bureau, but it was shallower at 7.3 kilometres. Because Taiwan is located close to the meeting point of two tectonic plates, earthquakes frequently strike the island. Unless a quake is stronger than magnitude 7.0, the island does not send tsunami alerts. Also Read: 'Putin is isolating himself', says White House stressing on PM Modi's message to Russian President Although a lot depends on where and how deep the earthquake occurs, some earthquakes with a magnitude of 6.0 or higher can be fatal. However, the USGS predicted a low probability of mortality on Saturday, though it warned that some damage was conceivable. (with inputs from agencies)

Watch: 6.6-magnitude earthquake hit Taiwan's east coast: US Geological Survey

The US Senate Foreign Relations Committee has now approved the Taiwan Policy Act, this is the first step toward Americans providing billions of dollars in terms of military aid to Taiwan and also making their relationship official.

US Senate committee approves new Taiwan act to boost support

With Russian and Chinese delegations in Samarkand, Taiwan is warning that ties between Moscow and Beijing are a threat. It says that for global peace, the International Community must now resist the expansion of authoritarianism.

Xi-Putin meet on sidelines of SCO summit, raises concerns for Taiwan

How could the US sanction China to deter a Taiwan attack?

Here we bring you a quick round-up of all latest news, top headlines and international breakings from all across the globe, stay tuned with Gravitas for more!

Gravitas Global Headlines: US approves Taiwan policy act; Apple increases in-app purchase prices

Due to their participation in Washington's most recent military sales to Taiwan, the CEOs of Boeing Defense and Raytheon will face sanctions from China, a spokesperson for the foreign ministry announced on Friday.&nbsp;

Ted Colbert, CEO of Boeing Defense, Space, and Security, and Gregory Hayes, CEO of Raytheon Technologies Corp. have been subject to penalties as a result of the US State Department's approval of the sale of military hardware to Taiwan on September 2.&nbsp;

These deliveries include 60 anti-ship missiles and 100 air-to-air missiles, with Raytheon and Boeing Defense serving as the prime contractors for each.&nbsp;

According to Mao Ning, a spokesperson for the foreign ministry, Colbert and Hayes will face sanctions "in order to protect China's sovereignty and security interests" due to "their involvement in these arms sales".

Mao didn't go into detail about the specifics of the penalties or how they would be applied.&nbsp;

The US government and associated organisations are once again urged by the Chinese side to "stop selling arms to Taiwan and US-Taiwan military contacts."&nbsp;

After Nancy Pelosi, the speaker of the US House of Representatives, visited Taipei last month—the highest-ranking US official to visit the island in years—and in response to China's aggressive military exercises near Taiwan, the Pentagon unveiled the package.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/with-usd-377-million-in-loans-india-is-sri-lankas-top-lender-in-2022-report-516466">With USD 377 million in loans, India is Sri Lanka's top lender in 2022: Report</a>

Raytheon, Boeing Defense, and other unnamed parties implicated in arms sales to Taiwan have already received sanctions from China.&nbsp;

Beijing identified and enforced punishments against individuals from these companies for the first time with Friday's announcement.&nbsp;

Taiwan is a self-governing island that Beijing views as a province that needs to be reined in, possibly by force.&nbsp;

Taiwan denies China's claims to sovereignty, claiming that only its citizens have the power to determine their future, and it pledges to defend itself in the event of an assault.

(with inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1  width=&quot;100%&quot;"></iframe>

Due to their participation in Washington's most recent military sales to Taiwan, the CEOs of Boeing Defense and Raytheon will face sanctions from China, a spokesperson for the foreign ministry announced on Friday.

Due to their participation in Washington's most recent military sales to Taiwan, the CEOs of Boeing Defense and Raytheon will face sanctions from China, a spokesperson for the foreign ministry announced on Friday. Ted Colbert, CEO of Boeing Defense, Space, and Security, and Gregory Hayes, CEO of Raytheon Technologies Corp. have been subject to penalties as a result of the US State Department's approval of the sale of military hardware to Taiwan on September 2. These deliveries include 60 anti-ship missiles and 100 air-to-air missiles, with Raytheon and Boeing Defense serving as the prime contractors for each. According to Mao Ning, a spokesperson for the foreign ministry, Colbert and Hayes will face sanctions "in order to protect China's sovereignty and security interests" due to "their involvement in these arms sales". Mao didn't go into detail about the specifics of the penalties or how they would be applied. The US government and associated organisations are once again urged by the Chinese side to "stop selling arms to Taiwan and US-Taiwan military contacts." After Nancy Pelosi, the speaker of the US House of Representatives, visited Taipei last month—the highest-ranking US official to visit the island in years—and in response to China's aggressive military exercises near Taiwan, the Pentagon unveiled the package. Also Read: With USD 377 million in loans, India is Sri Lanka's top lender in 2022: Report Raytheon, Boeing Defense, and other unnamed parties implicated in arms sales to Taiwan have already received sanctions from China. Beijing identified and enforced punishments against individuals from these companies for the first time with Friday's announcement. Taiwan is a self-governing island that Beijing views as a province that needs to be reined in, possibly by force. Taiwan denies China's claims to sovereignty, claiming that only its citizens have the power to determine their future, and it pledges to defend itself in the event of an assault. (with inputs from agencies)

China plans to impose sanctions on CEOs of US companies over arms sales to Taiwan

The status quo in the Taiwan Strait has been changed and disrupted after the visit of Nancy Pelosi, the highest ranking official to visit the island state of Taiwan in the past 25 years. The US House Speaker’s meeting with the head of the State and other high-ranking officials of Taiwan to discuss the “unwavering commitment of the US” to the self-ruled Taiwanese democracy. New agreements for cooperation in trade are set to be inked in the aftermath of Pelosi’s visit. &nbsp;

The obvious fallout of this landmark visit from a country like the US, providing global visibility to the independence of Taiwan, has allowed China to disrupt the uneasy peace around the island through multi-pronged military drills.&nbsp;

China has blatantly ignored the median line of the Strait and flown fighter jets across the waters, fired ballistic missiles across the island skies and seas.&nbsp;

British journalists have opined on the window of opportunity that the US provided to Chinese military officials who have been waiting for “acceptability” in such aggressions.&nbsp;

This has also resulted in the hardening of stance by both Taiwan and the US in response to Chinese belligerence. A dress rehearsal of sorts for war in the region seems to be taking place with each side conducting its own set of strategic drills in response.&nbsp;

The visit has wider significance for the South China Sea and Indo-Pacific region where there are already inflamed border and maritime conflicts. German think tanks among others have a consistent view that China could not have planned such extensive live-fire drills in the short span of Pelosi’s visit and hence, shows the premeditated nature of China’s capacity to aggressively ‘conquer’ Taiwan’s territory. 
&nbsp; 
Policymakers, diplomats and businessmen are all key stakeholders looking at all updates very closely. The current President Tsai Ing-wen is a hardliner against China. Major Taiwanese corporations with investments in China have been warned to choose a pro-China party such as KMT instead of extending support to Ing-wen.&nbsp;

Sanctions have been placed upon high-ranking Taiwanese officials after the second US delegation visit. Kurt Campbell. Deputy assistant to President Biden in multiple interviews has spoken about China’s unilateral and unprecedented actions in the region and termed it as an ‘overreaction’ by the Chinese bureaucracy to justify the nature of the military and political response. 
&nbsp; 
China has further used this opportunity for muscle-flexing its enhanced military prowess, the world’s largest navy and has created a larger threat perception in the region. This regional significance of this event came to the fore after it test-fired a surface-to-air anti-aircraft missile prior to India-US ‘Yudh Abhyas’ drills set to take place 100kms from the LAC.&nbsp;

While emphasising their deterrence policy in conducting these drills, China has tried to spread the propaganda of “saving” the Taiwanese public from Taiwan’s ruling party and rejoining them with the mainland as it “historically” should be. However, the Taiwan of today, no longer believes itself to be a part of China. They are a popular democracy with certain rights and freedoms that they have achieved through democratic mandate. 
&nbsp; 
The wider significance of China’s acceptability of these aggressions will determine the foreign policy and national interests of Indo-Pacific states. Russia acknowledged the ‘One China Policy’ and thus, led India to state the clear limitations of its support to Russia where its own national interest is concerned.&nbsp;

Chinese drills entered the Japanese Special Economic Zone as well, which diplomats have opined was done to solicit a response from Japan and predict any such strategic response in the future. 
&nbsp; 
Foreign Ministers of both sides have given strong statements with regard to the changing status quo of the region. China’s Wang Yi has made strong statements, calling the US visit “despicable”, and facilitated the cancellation of cooperation with the US on issues like cross-border crime, anti-drugs efforts, and climate issues among the key sectors.&nbsp;

All high-level dialogues have also been paused between China and the US. Alternatively, Taiwan’s Foreign Ministry has given strong but tempered statements where it states continuing to pursue relations with other countries while maintaining peace in the region. They will not keep being pressured into invisibility by China and their ‘One China’ propaganda.&nbsp;

Security analysts are of the opinion that continued acceptability of the “new normal” in the Taiwan Strait may result in an actual strike in garb of a drill and result in disastrous consequences for the greater region.&nbsp;

These speculations have many proponents as China has previously broken internationally accepted borders unilaterally over minor issues and continued to aggress using its “salami slicing” techniques before completely changing the status quo and resulting in longstanding heightened tensions.&nbsp; 
&nbsp; 
All the key stakeholders will be affected irrespective of how things turn out as precedents are in the process of being set depending on further responses by the States involved in the region. Thus, it is to be seen whether the sanctions, drills and posturing de-escalate through diplomatic channels or the dress rehearsal in the region culminate into dangerous conflicts.&nbsp;

(Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.)

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The status quo in the Taiwan Strait has been changed and disrupted after the visit of Nancy Pelosi, the highest ranking official to visit the island state of Taiwan in the past 25 years.

The status quo in the Taiwan Strait has been changed and disrupted after the visit of Nancy Pelosi, the highest ranking official to visit the island state of Taiwan in the past 25 years. The US House Speaker’s meeting with the head of the State and other high-ranking officials of Taiwan to discuss the “unwavering commitment of the US” to the self-ruled Taiwanese democracy. New agreements for cooperation in trade are set to be inked in the aftermath of Pelosi’s visit. The obvious fallout of this landmark visit from a country like the US, providing global visibility to the independence of Taiwan, has allowed China to disrupt the uneasy peace around the island through multi-pronged military drills. China has blatantly ignored the median line of the Strait and flown fighter jets across the waters, fired ballistic missiles across the island skies and seas. British journalists have opined on the window of opportunity that the US provided to Chinese military officials who have been waiting for “acceptability” in such aggressions. This has also resulted in the hardening of stance by both Taiwan and the US in response to Chinese belligerence. A dress rehearsal of sorts for war in the region seems to be taking place with each side conducting its own set of strategic drills in response. The visit has wider significance for the South China Sea and Indo-Pacific region where there are already inflamed border and maritime conflicts. German think tanks among others have a consistent view that China could not have planned such extensive live-fire drills in the short span of Pelosi’s visit and hence, shows the premeditated nature of China’s capacity to aggressively ‘conquer’ Taiwan’s territory. Policymakers, diplomats and businessmen are all key stakeholders looking at all updates very closely. The current President Tsai Ing-wen is a hardliner against China. Major Taiwanese corporations with investments in China have been warned to choose a pro-China party such as KMT instead of extending support to Ing-wen. Sanctions have been placed upon high-ranking Taiwanese officials after the second US delegation visit. Kurt Campbell. Deputy assistant to President Biden in multiple interviews has spoken about China’s unilateral and unprecedented actions in the region and termed it as an ‘overreaction’ by the Chinese bureaucracy to justify the nature of the military and political response. China has further used this opportunity for muscle-flexing its enhanced military prowess, the world’s largest navy and has created a larger threat perception in the region. This regional significance of this event came to the fore after it test-fired a surface-to-air anti-aircraft missile prior to India-US ‘Yudh Abhyas’ drills set to take place 100kms from the LAC. While emphasising their deterrence policy in conducting these drills, China has tried to spread the propaganda of “saving” the Taiwanese public from Taiwan’s ruling party and rejoining them with the mainland as it “historically” should be. However, the Taiwan of today, no longer believes itself to be a part of China. They are a popular democracy with certain rights and freedoms that they have achieved through democratic mandate. The wider significance of China’s acceptability of these aggressions will determine the foreign policy and national interests of Indo-Pacific states. Russia acknowledged the ‘One China Policy’ and thus, led India to state the clear limitations of its support to Russia where its own national interest is concerned. Chinese drills entered the Japanese Special Economic Zone as well, which diplomats have opined was done to solicit a response from Japan and predict any such strategic response in the future. Foreign Ministers of both sides have given strong statements with regard to the changing status quo of the region. China’s Wang Yi has made strong statements, calling the US visit “despicable”, and facilitated the cancellation of cooperation with the US on issues like cross-border crime, anti-drugs efforts, and climate issues among the key sectors. All high-level dialogues have also been paused between China and the US. Alternatively, Taiwan’s Foreign Ministry has given strong but tempered statements where it states continuing to pursue relations with other countries while maintaining peace in the region. They will not keep being pressured into invisibility by China and their ‘One China’ propaganda. Security analysts are of the opinion that continued acceptability of the “new normal” in the Taiwan Strait may result in an actual strike in garb of a drill and result in disastrous consequences for the greater region. These speculations have many proponents as China has previously broken internationally accepted borders unilaterally over minor issues and continued to aggress using its “salami slicing” techniques before completely changing the status quo and resulting in longstanding heightened tensions. All the key stakeholders will be affected irrespective of how things turn out as precedents are in the process of being set depending on further responses by the States involved in the region. Thus, it is to be seen whether the sanctions, drills and posturing de-escalate through diplomatic channels or the dress rehearsal in the region culminate into dangerous conflicts. (Disclaimer: The views of the writer do not represent the views of WION or ZMCL. Nor does WION or ZMCL endorse the views of the writer.) WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Wider implication of China-Taiwan-US conundrum

The United States Senate Foreign Relations Committee approved the Taiwan Policy Act. This is the first step towards the US providing billions of dollars in military aid to Taiwan and making ties between them more visual.

WION Dispatch: Biggest change in US relations with Taiwan and China since 1979

The United States is considering options for a sanctions package against China to deter it from invading Taiwan, with the European Union coming under diplomatic pressure from Taipei to do the same, according to reports. Molly Gambhir tells you more.

WION Fineprint | U.S. considers China sanctions to deter Taiwan action

A trade event in Malaysia&nbsp;became another flashpoint for Taiwan and China after a Taiwanese beauty queen was not allowed to wave the island's flag on stage.

The incident took place on Tuesday during the opening ceremony of the 2022 World Congress on Innovation and Technology (WCIT).

A photo of Miss Taiwan Kao Man-jung crying with other contestants in a beauty pageant on stage waving their flags went viral, triggering strong reactions from Taipei.

According to local media, Kao was stopped from going onto the stage when other contestants were called in. A video was also shared on Facebook.

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Taiwanese authorities claimed that China coerced Malaysian organisers to prevent Kao from displaying the Taiwan flag.

"China pressured the Malaysian organisers to ban Miss Kao from holding our national flag on stage," Taiwan's Foreign Ministry said, according to AFP.

Taiwan said it had instructed its representative office in Malaysia to lodge a formal complaint with the organisers.

The ministry said that such suppression "would only disgust Taiwanese people and the international community even more" and blamed Beijing of deploying "vile actions".

China claims Taiwan as its own territory and actively takes measures in making sure that other countries don’t recognise Taipei as an independent country.

Beijing hopes to integrate Taiwan with its mainland, even by force.

It has in the past expressed angry reactions over the display of the Taiwanese flag at international events or by foreign celebrities.

US pop stars like Madonna and Katy Perry have faced China’s ire for displaying Taiwan's flag in the past. In 2016, a teen Taiwanese K-pop singer was made to publicly apologise for waving the Taiwan flag during an online broadcast.

(With inputs from agencies)

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A trade event in Malaysia became another flashpoint for Taiwan and China after a Taiwanese beauty queen was not allowed to wave the island's flag on stage. The incident took place on Tuesday during the opening ceremony of the 2022 World Congress on Innovation and Technology (WCIT).

A trade event in Malaysia became another flashpoint for Taiwan and China after a Taiwanese beauty queen was not allowed to wave the island's flag on stage. The incident took place on Tuesday during the opening ceremony of the 2022 World Congress on Innovation and Technology (WCIT). A photo of Miss Taiwan Kao Man-jung crying with other contestants in a beauty pageant on stage waving their flags went viral, triggering strong reactions from Taipei. According to local media, Kao was stopped from going onto the stage when other contestants were called in. A video was also shared on Facebook. × Taiwanese authorities claimed that China coerced Malaysian organisers to prevent Kao from displaying the Taiwan flag. "China pressured the Malaysian organisers to ban Miss Kao from holding our national flag on stage," Taiwan's Foreign Ministry said, according to AFP. Taiwan said it had instructed its representative office in Malaysia to lodge a formal complaint with the organisers. The ministry said that such suppression "would only disgust Taiwanese people and the international community even more" and blamed Beijing of deploying "vile actions". China claims Taiwan as its own territory and actively takes measures in making sure that other countries don’t recognise Taipei as an independent country. Beijing hopes to integrate Taiwan with its mainland, even by force. It has in the past expressed angry reactions over the display of the Taiwanese flag at international events or by foreign celebrities. US pop stars like Madonna and Katy Perry have faced China’s ire for displaying Taiwan's flag in the past. In 2016, a teen Taiwanese K-pop singer was made to publicly apologise for waving the Taiwan flag during an online broadcast. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE

Taiwanese beauty queen not allowed to go on stage with flag, Taipei accuses China of ‘vile’ actions 

The United States is considering options for a sanctions package against China to deter it from invading Taiwan, with the European Union coming under diplomatic pressure from Taipei to do the same, according to sources familiar with the discussions.

The sources said the deliberations in Washington and Taipei’s separate lobbying of EU envoys were both at an early stage — a response to fears of a Chinese invasion which have grown as military tensions escalate in the Taiwan Strait.

In both cases, the idea is to take sanctions beyond measures already taken in the West to restrict some trade and investment with China in sensitive technologies like computer chips and telecoms equipment.

The sources did not provide any details of what is being considered but the notion of sanctions on the world’s second-largest economy and one of the global supply chain’s biggest links raises questions of feasibility.

“The potential imposition of sanctions on China is a far more complex exercise than sanctions on Russia, given U.S. and allies’ extensive entanglement with the Chinese economy,” said Nazak Nikakhtar, a former senior U.S. Commerce Department official.

China claims Taiwan as its own territory and last month fired missiles over the island and sailed warships across their unofficial sea frontier after U.S. House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi visited Taipei in what Beijing saw as a provocation.

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Chinese President Xi Jinping has vowed to reunify democratically-governed Taiwan with the mainland and has not ruled out the use of force. He is set to secure a third, five-year leadership term at a Communist Party congress next month.

In Washington, officials are considering options for a possible package of sanctions against China to deter Xi from attempting to invade Taiwan, said a U.S. official and an official from a country in close coordination with Washington.

U.S. talks over sanctions began after Russia invaded Ukraine in February, but took on fresh urgency after the Chinese reaction to Pelosi’s visit, the two sources said.

The United States, backed by NATO allies, took a similar approach to Russia in January with a threat of unspecified sanctions but this failed to dissuade Russian President Vladimir Putin from launching his invasion of Ukraine.

The White House is focused on getting countries on the same page, including coordinating between Europe and Asia, and avoiding provoking Beijing, the non-U.S. official said.

The White House declined to comment.

Taiwan’s Foreign Ministry said it had discussed China’s recent war games and the “great challenges” China poses to Taiwan and the region with the United States, Europe and other like-minded partners, but could not disclose details.

China’s Foreign Ministry did not respond to a request for comment.

Taiwan’s pitch to Europe

Taiwan had already broached sanctions with European officials after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, but China’s recent military exercises have seen Taiwan’s position harden, six sources briefed on the Taiwan-Europe discussions told Reuters.

Top Taiwanese officials’ calls for sanctions preparations have intensified in recent weeks. A recent Chinese white paper, which withdrew a promise not to send troops or administrators to Taiwan if Beijing takes control of the island, has prompted a redoubling of their efforts with Europe.

Taiwan has not asked for anything specific, only for Europe to plan what actions it may take if China attacked, one source briefed on discussions said, and has asked Europe to warn China privately that it would face consequences.

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EU officials have so far shied away from imposing tough sanctions on China over human rights issues, as the country plays a far bigger role in the bloc’s economy than Russia, said another person familiar with the matter.

European sanctions would require all 27 member countries to agree, which is often elusive; the consensus was tough even in isolating Russia after its invasion of Ukraine, in part because its gas was critical for Germany.

All of Europe, excluding the Vatican, has formal diplomatic relations with Beijing but not Taipei, though Taiwanese and European officials have had extensive, private contacts since China’s military exercises began, the sources say.

Germany, the bloc’s economic engine, is “wary,” according to another official familiar with the discussion. “I don’t think the Russia-Ukraine has fundamentally changed the way they view their relationship with China.”

But there is a growing concern in the German government over its economic dependence on China, with the economy minister pledging a new trade policy and “no more naivety” on Tuesday.

A spokesperson for German Chancellor Olaf Scholz declined to comment.

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The United States is considering options for a sanctions package against China to deter it from invading Taiwan, with the European Union coming under diplomatic pressure from Taipei to do the same, according to sources familiar with the discussions.

The United States is considering options for a sanctions package against China to deter it from invading Taiwan, with the European Union coming under diplomatic pressure from Taipei to do the same, according to sources familiar with the discussions. The sources said the deliberations in Washington and Taipei’s separate lobbying of EU envoys were both at an early stage — a response to fears of a Chinese invasion which have grown as military tensions escalate in the Taiwan Strait. In both cases, the idea is to take sanctions beyond measures already taken in the West to restrict some trade and investment with China in sensitive technologies like computer chips and telecoms equipment. The sources did not provide any details of what is being considered but the notion of sanctions on the world’s second-largest economy and one of the global supply chain’s biggest links raises questions of feasibility. “The potential imposition of sanctions on China is a far more complex exercise than sanctions on Russia, given U.S. and allies’ extensive entanglement with the Chinese economy,” said Nazak Nikakhtar, a former senior U.S. Commerce Department official. China claims Taiwan as its own territory and last month fired missiles over the island and sailed warships across their unofficial sea frontier after U.S. House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi visited Taipei in what Beijing saw as a provocation. Also read | Modi to meet Putin at SCO summit, focus on trade and energy ties Chinese President Xi Jinping has vowed to reunify democratically-governed Taiwan with the mainland and has not ruled out the use of force. He is set to secure a third, five-year leadership term at a Communist Party congress next month. In Washington, officials are considering options for a possible package of sanctions against China to deter Xi from attempting to invade Taiwan, said a U.S. official and an official from a country in close coordination with Washington. U.S. talks over sanctions began after Russia invaded Ukraine in February, but took on fresh urgency after the Chinese reaction to Pelosi’s visit, the two sources said. The United States, backed by NATO allies, took a similar approach to Russia in January with a threat of unspecified sanctions but this failed to dissuade Russian President Vladimir Putin from launching his invasion of Ukraine. The White House is focused on getting countries on the same page, including coordinating between Europe and Asia, and avoiding provoking Beijing, the non-U.S. official said. The White House declined to comment. Taiwan’s Foreign Ministry said it had discussed China’s recent war games and the “great challenges” China poses to Taiwan and the region with the United States, Europe and other like-minded partners, but could not disclose details. China’s Foreign Ministry did not respond to a request for comment. Taiwan’s pitch to Europe Taiwan had already broached sanctions with European officials after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, but China’s recent military exercises have seen Taiwan’s position harden, six sources briefed on the Taiwan-Europe discussions told Reuters. Top Taiwanese officials’ calls for sanctions preparations have intensified in recent weeks. A recent Chinese white paper, which withdrew a promise not to send troops or administrators to Taiwan if Beijing takes control of the island, has prompted a redoubling of their efforts with Europe. Taiwan has not asked for anything specific, only for Europe to plan what actions it may take if China attacked, one source briefed on discussions said, and has asked Europe to warn China privately that it would face consequences. Also read | Biden parties as stock market tumbles, inflation worsens and Fed indicates rate hike EU officials have so far shied away from imposing tough sanctions on China over human rights issues, as the country plays a far bigger role in the bloc’s economy than Russia, said another person familiar with the matter. European sanctions would require all 27 member countries to agree, which is often elusive; the consensus was tough even in isolating Russia after its invasion of Ukraine, in part because its gas was critical for Germany. All of Europe, excluding the Vatican, has formal diplomatic relations with Beijing but not Taipei, though Taiwanese and European officials have had extensive, private contacts since China’s military exercises began, the sources say. Germany, the bloc’s economic engine, is “wary,” according to another official familiar with the discussion. “I don’t think the Russia-Ukraine has fundamentally changed the way they view their relationship with China.” But there is a growing concern in the German government over its economic dependence on China, with the economy minister pledging a new trade policy and “no more naivety” on Tuesday. A spokesperson for German Chancellor Olaf Scholz declined to comment.

United States considers imposing sanctions on China to deter Taiwan action

As per reports, China may soon face sanctions over its Taiwan bid. The United States is now mulling options for sanctions package to deter Beijing as the diplomatic pressure from Taipei mounts.

China may soon face sanctions from the West; Taiwan builds up diplomatic pressure

President Tsai Ing-wen told a visiting group of US lawmakers on Thursday that Taiwan is confident it can sign a high standard trade deal with the United States under a new framework.

Taiwan to sign 'high standard' US trade deal amid China threats

As tensions with China over its claims to the autonomous island remain high, a second legislative delegation from the US is currently in Taiwan.&nbsp;

Since US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's visit in early August, a continuous stream of Americans has been to Taiwan to meet with government representatives.&nbsp;

Since then, China has increased its military intimidation of Taiwan by routinely sending warships, bombers, and even drones toward the island.&nbsp;

On Thursday, the eight-person, nonpartisan group will speak with Tsai Ing-wen, the president of Taiwan.

It is led by Stephanie Murphy, a Florida Democrat who is one of the legislators who introduced a bill that would permit the US to lend arms to Taiwan in support, similar to a bill that was enacted to lend weapons to Ukraine. The Biden administration gave its approval last week to a USD 1 billion arms deal with Taiwan.&nbsp;

The other guests are Republican Scott Franklin of Florida, Democrat Kaiali'i Kahele of Hawaii, Republican Joe Wilson of South Carolina, Republican Andy Barr of Kentucky, Republican Darrell Issa of California, Republican Claudia Tenney of New York, and Republican Kat Cammack of Florida.

The US government's highest-ranking official to visit Taiwan in 25 years was Pelosi. In retaliation, China conducted extensive military drills that included launching missiles over the island and deploying ships through the Taiwan Strait's middle, which had previously served as a demilitarised zone between the two sides. The missiles made some landings in the exclusive economic zone of Japan.&nbsp;

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High-level international trips to the island are viewed as interference in Chinese affairs and a tacit acknowledgement of Taiwanese sovereignty by China. Some believed that China's recent military exercises were a practice run for upcoming military action against the island, which US military leaders fear could happen in the next few years.

A US senator, another congressional delegation, as well as government representatives from Japan and Palau, visited Taiwan after Pelosi's visit. Additionally, the governors of Arizona and Indiana paid trips with an emphasis on semiconductors, a sector that Taiwanese firms dominate.&nbsp;

Politicians from the US have described their visits as a gesture of support for Taiwan and democracy.

(with inputs from agencies)

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As tensions with China over its claims to the autonomous island remain high, a second legislative delegation from the US is currently in Taiwan. Since US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's visit in early August, a continuous stream of Americans has been to Taiwan to meet with government representatives.

As tensions with China over its claims to the autonomous island remain high, a second legislative delegation from the US is currently in Taiwan. Since US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's visit in early August, a continuous stream of Americans has been to Taiwan to meet with government representatives. Since then, China has increased its military intimidation of Taiwan by routinely sending warships, bombers, and even drones toward the island. On Thursday, the eight-person, nonpartisan group will speak with Tsai Ing-wen, the president of Taiwan. It is led by Stephanie Murphy, a Florida Democrat who is one of the legislators who introduced a bill that would permit the US to lend arms to Taiwan in support, similar to a bill that was enacted to lend weapons to Ukraine. The Biden administration gave its approval last week to a USD 1 billion arms deal with Taiwan. The other guests are Republican Scott Franklin of Florida, Democrat Kaiali'i Kahele of Hawaii, Republican Joe Wilson of South Carolina, Republican Andy Barr of Kentucky, Republican Darrell Issa of California, Republican Claudia Tenney of New York, and Republican Kat Cammack of Florida. The US government's highest-ranking official to visit Taiwan in 25 years was Pelosi. In retaliation, China conducted extensive military drills that included launching missiles over the island and deploying ships through the Taiwan Strait's middle, which had previously served as a demilitarised zone between the two sides. The missiles made some landings in the exclusive economic zone of Japan. Also Read: In pics: What moving out of majestic white house looks like? High-level international trips to the island are viewed as interference in Chinese affairs and a tacit acknowledgement of Taiwanese sovereignty by China. Some believed that China's recent military exercises were a practice run for upcoming military action against the island, which US military leaders fear could happen in the next few years. A US senator, another congressional delegation, as well as government representatives from Japan and Palau, visited Taiwan after Pelosi's visit. Additionally, the governors of Arizona and Indiana paid trips with an emphasis on semiconductors, a sector that Taiwanese firms dominate. Politicians from the US have described their visits as a gesture of support for Taiwan and democracy. (with inputs from agencies)

US congressional delegation lands in Taiwan amid high tension with China

Taiwan's army staged live fire drills on Tuesday night and this comes as part of a series of military exercises. It also comes at a time when ties between China and Taiwan continue to remain tense.

Taiwan conducts live-fire drills in wake of China's ongoing aggression

President Tsai Ing-Wen says Taiwan military has improved, conducts fresh live drills

A Taiwanese tycoon has announced his plan to train 3.3 million “civilian warriors” and marksmen to defend Taiwan from a Chinese invasion, using $32 million of his own money. Molly Gambhir tells you more.

WION Fineprint | Taiwan tycoon to fund 3.3 million-strong army of ‘civilian warriors’

Taiwan&nbsp;said a Chinese military reconnaissance drone entered its air defence zone on Monday, the latest incursion as relations between the two neighbours remains tense.

The drone, identified by Taipei's defence ministry as a BZK-007 vehicle, crossed into the southwest corner of the island's air defence identification zone (ADIZ) along with eight Chinese warplanes.

Taiwan's ADIZ is much larger than its airspace and overlaps with part of China's ADIZ and even includes some of the mainland.

China has dramatically increased incursions into&nbsp;Taiwan's southwestern ADIZ over the last two years, but the use of military drones is rare.

The last time&nbsp;Taiwan's military reported one was October 2020, one month after it started making data on the frequency of Chinese sorties public.

Monday's incursion came after Taiwanese soldiers on a tiny islet just off China's mainland shot down an unidentified commercial drone last week.

That was the first time Taiwanese forces have downed a drone, following a sudden spate of incursions by small, commercially available drones in recent weeks.

In contrast, the BZK-007 is a much larger, military drone built by the Guizhou Aircraft Industry Corporation that can carry out long-distance flights and boasts much more sophisticated reconnaissance devices.

Taiwan's 23 million people live under constant threat of invasion by China, which claims the self-ruled, democratic island as part of its territory to be taken one day -- by force if necessary.&nbsp;

Beijing's sabre-rattling has grown more pronounced under President Xi Jinping, China's most authoritarian and internationally assertive leader in a generation.

Last month China sent warships, missiles and fighter jets into the waters and skies around&nbsp;Taiwan, its largest and most aggressive exercises since mid-1990s.

Those exercises were a protest against a visit to Taipei by US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.

Taiwan&nbsp;also saw a record 446 air incursions by Chinese warplanes in August.

Crossings by Chinese warplanes of the median line, an unofficial barrier between the two sides running down the&nbsp;Taiwan&nbsp;Strait, have also become near-daily since Pelosi's visit.

In 2020, China flew a total of 380 sorties, according to an AFP database using Taiwanese military reports.

By last year that jumped to 969.&nbsp;

So far this year Chinese planes have made at least 1,100 individual incursions into the ADIZ.

Taiwan said a Chinese military reconnaissance drone entered its air defence zone on Monday, the latest incursion as relations between the two neighbours remains tense.

Taiwan said a Chinese military reconnaissance drone entered its air defence zone on Monday, the latest incursion as relations between the two neighbours remains tense. The drone, identified by Taipei's defence ministry as a BZK-007 vehicle, crossed into the southwest corner of the island's air defence identification zone (ADIZ) along with eight Chinese warplanes. Taiwan's ADIZ is much larger than its airspace and overlaps with part of China's ADIZ and even includes some of the mainland. China has dramatically increased incursions into Taiwan's southwestern ADIZ over the last two years, but the use of military drones is rare. The last time Taiwan's military reported one was October 2020, one month after it started making data on the frequency of Chinese sorties public. Monday's incursion came after Taiwanese soldiers on a tiny islet just off China's mainland shot down an unidentified commercial drone last week. That was the first time Taiwanese forces have downed a drone, following a sudden spate of incursions by small, commercially available drones in recent weeks. In contrast, the BZK-007 is a much larger, military drone built by the Guizhou Aircraft Industry Corporation that can carry out long-distance flights and boasts much more sophisticated reconnaissance devices. Taiwan's 23 million people live under constant threat of invasion by China, which claims the self-ruled, democratic island as part of its territory to be taken one day -- by force if necessary. Beijing's sabre-rattling has grown more pronounced under President Xi Jinping, China's most authoritarian and internationally assertive leader in a generation. Last month China sent warships, missiles and fighter jets into the waters and skies around Taiwan, its largest and most aggressive exercises since mid-1990s. Those exercises were a protest against a visit to Taipei by US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. Taiwan also saw a record 446 air incursions by Chinese warplanes in August. Crossings by Chinese warplanes of the median line, an unofficial barrier between the two sides running down the Taiwan Strait, have also become near-daily since Pelosi's visit. In 2020, China flew a total of 380 sorties, according to an AFP database using Taiwanese military reports. By last year that jumped to 969. So far this year Chinese planes have made at least 1,100 individual incursions into the ADIZ.

Taiwan says Chinese military drone entered air defence zone

World at War | Episode 18: Taiwan shoots down suspected Chinese drone for the first time Ukraine mounts a counter-offensive to retake Kherson Solomon Islands bans all foreign military ships from docking at its port & 32 killed in Tripoli, as Libya edges closer to another civil war Mohammed Saleh gets you an indepth report of the World's biggest warzones of the week in World At War

World at War | Episode 18: Taiwan shoots down suspected Chinese drone for the first time

Amid the Taiwan-China crisis, the Philippines has stated that it would allow the US forces to use its military bases in the event of a Taiwan conflict. The statement was made by Jose Manuel Romualdez, Philippines' ambassador to the US with the caveat "if it is important for us, for our own security,".

Amid the Taiwan-China crisis, the Philippines has stated that it would allow the US forces to use its military bases in the event of a Taiwan conflict. The statement was made by Jose Manuel Romualdez, Philippines' ambassador to the US with the caveat "if it is important for us, for our own security,". It is pertinent to note that Romualdez is a relative of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and wields considerable influence in the power corridors of Manila. His statement indicates the position Manila is taking despite assuming a relative neutral stance on the Taiwan issue. "Nobody wants to have any kind of war or confrontation. We want to ask both countries to lessen the tension by having more dialogue and then trying to resolve all of these issues because it's in our part of the world," added Romualdez. The envoy also added that Manila is in talks with Washington to increase the number of military bases that US forces can use in Philippine territory. "Our military and the military of the United States are all looking into what are the possible areas," Read more: Schools reopen in Philippines for the first time after two years of Covid lockdowns Romualdez's statement comes in the backdrop of the Biden administration announcing a more than $1 billion arms sale to Taiwan, much to the chagrin of China. Moreover, last week, two American warships had sailed through the Taiwan Strait. WATCH | Tensions continue to soar across Taiwan; China issues stern warning to the US × Beijing has repeatedly warned Washington to stay away from Taiwan and not muddle with the 'One China' policy However, since August, Washington has been taking an aggressive approach. As reported extensively by WION, US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi's visit, the first by a top US official in 25 years, set off a series of US lawmakers' visits to Taipei. US Senator Marsha Blackburn became the fourth lawmaker to visit Taiwan when she travelled to Taipei late last month. Meanwhile, after holding intensive military drills around the island nation in the aftermath of Pelosi's visit, Beijing is once again starting to crank up the pressure. Earlier today, Taiwan's defence ministry said that two Chinese fighter jets crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait again. It is pertinent to note that the Philippines, Vietnam, Malaysia, Brunei, and Taiwan have counterclaims over the South China Sea which China considers its own. Thus, the Philipines extending the services of its military bases to the US is a move, purely dictated by its own gains. (With inputs from agencies) WATCH WION LIVE HERE:

US may use our military bases in case of a Taiwan conflict, says Philippine ambassador to the US

Amid rising tensions between Taiwan and China, the frontline soldiers of the island nation were seen demonstrating an intercept for unidentified drones flying in restricted zones in Kinmen. This development comes after Taiwanese soldiers downed an unidentified drone for the first time on September 1.

Taiwan deploys anti-drone guns at Kinmen; vows tough measures against Chinese intrusions

The China Central Meteorological Observatory has issued a yellow alert and heavy to very heavy rainfall has been predicted in Xinjiang, Shanghai, and some coastal areas of the region for the next 2 days. Taiwan's weather bureau has also issued a heavy rain advisory for the entire region.

Typhoon Hinnamnor approaches Japan's coast; heavy rainfall predicted in China, Japan

As tensions with China continue to rise, the US has announced $1.1 billion arms package for Taiwan. Now, China has issued a stern warning to US over arms sales to Taiwan.

Tensions continue to soar across Taiwan; China issues stern warning to the US

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