China’s Ministry of National Defense has firmly rejected international criticism of its recent military exercises around Taiwan, characterizing them as necessary measures to counter separatist activities and foreign interference. Defense spokesman Zhang Xiaogang stated that the ‘Justice Mission 2025’ drills conducted by the People’s Liberation Army’s Eastern Theater Command were designed to test integrated joint combat capabilities while demonstrating military readiness to preserve territorial integrity.
The exercises, which drew concern from Western governments including the United States, Japan, Australia, and the European Union, were described by Zhang as ‘completely legitimate, necessary and beyond reproach.’ He emphasized that Taiwan constitutes an inalienable part of Chinese territory and that related matters remain exclusively internal affairs permitting no external intervention.
Zhang identified ‘Taiwan independence’ separatism and its external supporters as the primary threats to regional stability, asserting that provocative actions crossing established red lines would inevitably trigger resolute countermeasures. While affirming China’s commitment to peaceful development, he clarified that peace would not be exploited as pretext to restrain legitimate responses to separatist challenges.
The spokesman urged international actors to adhere to the one-China principle and cease support for pro-independence elements in Taiwan. He additionally called on Taiwanese residents to recognize the dangers posed by current leadership policies and prioritize safeguarding their security interests.
The Ministry concluded that Chinese armed forces would maintain heightened combat readiness to defeat any independence movements, counter foreign interference, and protect national sovereignty through continued demonstration of operational capabilities.