China conducted large-scale military drills around Taiwan on Tuesday to serve as a "severe warning" to the self-governing democratic island against separatism.
Shi Yi, a spokesperson for the People's Liberation Army's Eastern Theater Command, called the drills — involving air, sea, and rocket forces — a "severe warning and forceful containment against Taiwan independence."
China's Coast Guard called its exercises a "law enforcement patrol" around Taiwan.
Taiwan's Ministry of National Defense tracked 19 Chinese navy vessels in the area, including the Shandong aircraft carrier, which entered Taiwan's defense zone.
In response, Taiwan deployed warships and activated its missile systems.
China views Taiwan as part of its territory and has not ruled out force to bring it under control, while most Taiwanese favor their de facto independence.
China labels Taiwan's president 'parasite'
The exercises are aimed as a warning to Taiwan's President Lai Ching-te, whom China labels a "separatist."
In a video released on the Chinese social media, Lai was depicted a green cartoon bug with the words: "Parasite courting ultimate destruction."
Taiwan Defence Minister Wellington Koo said China's actions "shows their provocative character," and insisted such rhetoric were not conducive to peace.
Last month, Lai had accused Beijing of trying to "absorb" Taiwan and undermine the island's independence.
China had dismissed Lai's remarks, saying that nothing "change the inevitable event of the reunification [of Taiwan] with the motherland."
Beijing continues apparent intimidation strategy
The latest drills come after months of rising tensions, with China regularly sending military planes and ships toward Taiwan.
Just two weeks ago, Beijing sent a large number of drones and ships toward the island in a large-scale exercise in mid- March.
Taiwan's government condemned the drills, asserting its right to self-defense.