Taiwan’s President Vows to Defend Sovereignty After Chinese Military Drills

Outlet: Haitian Prime News

Date: January 1, 2026

Location: Taipei, Taiwan

TAIPEI — Taiwan’s President Lai Ching-te said Thursday that the island will firmly defend its sovereignty and democratic system following a new round of military drills conducted by China near Taiwan.

Speaking in a New Year’s address, Lai said Taiwan faces growing security pressure and must be prepared to protect itself. He emphasized that maintaining peace requires strength, unity, and readiness, while reaffirming Taiwan’s commitment to democracy and self-governance.

The remarks came after China carried out large-scale military exercises around Taiwan, involving warships, aircraft, and live-fire activities in nearby waters. Beijing described the drills as a warning against what it calls separatist activities and foreign interference.

Lai called on Taiwan’s legislature to support increased defense spending, arguing that a stronger military posture is essential to deter aggression and ensure stability in the Taiwan Strait. He said Taiwan is willing to engage in dialogue with China, but only on the basis of mutual respect and recognition of Taiwan’s elected government.

China maintains that Taiwan is part of its territory and has not ruled out the use of force to achieve what it calls reunification. Taiwan’s government rejects that claim, stating that the island’s future can only be decided by its people.

The latest exchange underscores heightened tensions in the region as Taiwan seeks to balance deterrence with diplomacy amid intensifying pressure from Beijing and growing international concern over stability in the Indo-Pacific