China's Xi Jinping urges troops to prepare for war amid escalating tensions over Taiwan

World News: Chinese President Xi Jinping has called for a significant strengthening of military readiness, emphasizing the need for troops to enhance their preparedness for war. This announcement comes shortly after large-scale military drills were conducted around Taiwan. Xi made these remarks during his visit to a brigade of the People’s Liberation Army Rocket Force on Thursday, as reported by state-run broadcaster CCTV.

Xi highlighted the importance of "comprehensively strengthening training and preparation for war," asserting that military forces must develop robust combat capabilities. “Soldiers must enhance their strategic deterrent and combat capability,” he stated, underscoring the urgency for military forces to be equipped for potential conflicts.

Escalating tensions in the Taiwan Strait

China has increasingly demonstrated its military capabilities around Taiwan, a self-governing island that Beijing claims as part of its territory. Just days prior, China conducted extensive military operations, deploying fighter jets, drones, warships, and coast guard vessels to encircle Taiwan. This marked the fourth round of large-scale war games in just over two years, reflecting China's assertive posture in the region.

The Chinese Communist Party has reiterated its stance that it will not dismiss the use of force to assert control over Taiwan. During his visit, Xi insisted that the military must "strongly safeguard the country's strategic security and core interests." The longstanding dispute between China and Taiwan dates back to the Chinese Civil War in 1949, when nationalist forces fled to the island following their defeat by communist forces led by Mao Zedong. Since then, China and Taiwan have operated as separate entities, heightening the complexity of their relationship.