Taiwan holds naval drill as China steps up maritime pressure

Taiwan's military conducted a blockade drill during annual war games, as China escalates its maritime pressure. The drill, part of the ten-day Han Kuang exercise, involved the navy and coast guard escorting a simulated merchant ship, according to the defence ministry. China has been increasingly concerned about Taiwan's sovereignty, leading to its "law enforcement" patrols off the island's east coast, which have drawn criticism from Taipei and Western nations.

The navy collaborated with the coast guard in the drill, marking the first time they worked together on an anti-blockade exercise. Meanwhile, President Lai Ching-te visited an emergency ward and a supermarket to assess emergency provisions in an emergency scenario. During a separate exercise, soldiers set up barriers on roads leading to a key Taipei bridge, anticipating potential assault during a Chinese attack on the capital.