Australia warns Chinese exercises near Taiwan may inflame regional tension

Australia said it is deeply concerned about large Chinese military exercises near Taiwan and has raised the matter with Chinese officials; Taiwan reported missiles, military aircraft and ships were detected near its waters.

Australia has expressed deep concern about Chinese military exercises conducted near Taiwan and has raised the issue with Chinese officials. The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade described the large-scale drills as destabilising and said they risk increasing the chance of accident or escalation. Taiwan's defence ministry reported that missiles and military aircraft and ships were detected near its waters during the exercises. What is known: - Australia’s foreign affairs department said the exercises are "deeply concerning" and oppose actions that increase the risk of accident, miscalculation or escalation. - Australian officials have raised concerns with Chinese counterparts, according to the department's statement. - China’s armed forces announced large-scale military simulations they called "Justice Mission 2025," which prompted the diplomatic response. - Taiwan’s defence ministry reported missiles and multiple military aircraft and vessels were detected near its waters during the drills. Summary: Australia says the exercises risk inflaming regional tensions and has publicly opposed any unilateral actions that change the status quo across the Taiwan Strait. Undetermined at this time.