Historical Background of Tensions Between China and Taiwan
Tensions between China and Taiwan stem from the Chinese Civil War (1927–1949), which led to the victory of the Communist Party under Mao Zedong in mainland China, establishing the People’s Republic of China (PRC). The defeated Nationalist forces, led by Chiang Kai-shek, retreated to Taiwan (then called Formosa), where they established the Republic of China (ROC) in 1949.
Taiwan developed into a self-governing democracy, while China views it as a breakaway province that must eventually reunite with the mainland, according to the “One China” principle.
Beijing firmly opposes any moves toward Taiwan’s formal independence and has increased military pressure in the region. Despite economic ties, the political and military tensions persist, with the U.S. providing support to Taiwan, including arms sales, which China views as interference.
Tensions between China and Taiwan have increased further since Taiwan President Lai Ching-te took office in May 2024 after being elected in January. The People’s Republic of China, which claims democratically governed Taiwan as its territory, defines Lai as a “separatist.”
Taiwan President Lai Ching-te’s Speech
In the national day speech on Thursday (October 10, 2024), Lai firmly stated that “the People’s Republic of China has no right to represent Taiwan” and that he will “uphold the commitment to resist annexation or encroachment upon our sovereignty”. China, which sees Taiwan as part of its territory, heavily condemned these statements.
In his speech, however, Lai also said he is willing to collaborate with Beijing to face common challenges, such as climate change and infectious diseases.
China’s War Games Around Taiwan
After Lai’s speech, Taipei has been on high alert for military drills in the area. Those suspicions were confirmed when Chinese military drills near Taiwan began on Monday, October 14. The Chinese government described the drill as a warning against “separatist acts by Taiwan independence forces,” a move that prompted condemnation from both the Taipei and U.S. governments.
The Eastern Theatre Command of the Chinese military announced that the “Joint Sword-2024B” drills were being conducted in the Taiwan Strait and areas to the north, south, and east of Taiwan. The statement, released in both Chinese and English, emphasized that the drills serve as a strong warning against Taiwan’s independence movements, calling them a legitimate and necessary step to protect China’s sovereignty and national unity.
On Monday, Beijing simultaneously imposed sanctions on Taiwanese tech tycoon Robert Tsao and a lawmaker for their involvement in separatist activities.
During an international forum on Chinese politics in Taipei, National Security Council Secretary-General Joseph Wu emphasized the need for constant vigilance, stating, “We must remain alert at all times. We will act with moderation and responsibility, preserving the status quo across the Taiwan Strait.”
Cyber Warfare Adds to Growing Tensions Between China and Taiwan
In addition to military drills, tensions between China and Taiwan have also extended into the cyber realm. Last September, China’s national security ministry accused a Taiwan-backed hacking group, Anonymous 64, of launching cyberattacks on Chinese targets. Taiwan swiftly denied the allegations, countering that China is the true perpetrator of cyberattacks aimed at destabilizing the island. Both sides continue to exchange accusations in an ongoing battle over cyber warfare and disinformation.