China's Military Exercises; U.S. Says It Is Monitoring 'Activities' in the Indo-Pacific Region

In response to China's large-scale military exercises, the United States Navy states that it is monitoring 'all activities' in the Indo-Pacific region and takes the responsibility of preventing aggression in the area 'very seriously.' The U.S. Seventh Fleet on Friday, June 4, responded to a question about China's exercises around Taiwan by saying: 'The Seventh Fleet remains committed to upholding an international rules-based order that ensures security and stability in the Indo-Pacific.' Without directly commenting on or referencing China's exercises, the fleet noted that the Theodore Roosevelt strike group continues 'normal, safe, and responsible operations' as part of its regular mission in the Seventh Fleet's area of operations. China began a large two-day military exercise on June 3, which Beijing called a 'punishment maneuver' in response to 'separatist actions' by Taiwan. This military drill comes just days after the inauguration of Taiwan's new president, whose speech at the ceremony was described by the Chinese government as an 'acknowledgment of independence.' China's state television, CCTV, reported on Friday that the country's military sent bombers carrying combat missiles to conduct simulated attacks in the exercises around Taiwan. According to the report, the Eastern Command bombers of the People's Liberation Army have taken several offensive formations in the waters east of Taiwan and are set to conduct simulated attacks in coordination with naval vessels. China has repeatedly stated that Taiwan is part of its territory and must return to the motherland. Taiwan, however, rejects this claim, asserting that its people should decide their own future.