US and Canadian navy ships passed through the Taiwan Strait on Sunday, the Taiwanese Defense Ministry said on Monday.Β
“One United States and one Canadian naval vessel sailed through the Taiwan Strait from south to north yesterday,” the ministry wrote on X.
Taiwan’s armed forces maintained full control over the relevant maritime area and airspace during the ships’ passage, and the situation was under control, the ministry added.
The situation around Taiwan has become significantly more tense since Nancy Pelosi, then-Speaker of US House of Representatives, visited the island in early August 2022. China, which considers the island one of its provinces, condemned Pelosi’s visit, seeing it as US support for Taiwanese separatism, and held large-scale military exercises.
Chinese President Xi Jinping has issued a stark warning to the military, urging troops to enhance their readiness for war amid escalating tensions with Taiwan. This directive comes on the heels of extensive military drills conducted by the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) around Taiwan, which included the deployment of fighter jets and warships in a show of force. Xi emphasized the need for comprehensive training and solid combat capabilities, stating that soldiers must strengthen their strategic deterrence. Watch the video for details.
