Taiwan detects 11 Chinese aircraft, 6 naval vessels around its territory
Synopsis
Taiwan reported increased Chinese military activity around its territory, including aircraft and naval vessels crossing the median line. Former US Indo-Pacific Command Chief Admiral Harry Harris urged the United States to abandon strategic ambiguity and explicitly commit to defending Taiwan against China's aggressive intentions. Harris emphasized China's clear aim to seize Taiwan, necessitating a firm US stance.
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China's official summary included a warning from Mr. Xi to Mr. Trump that the United States should handle the Taiwan issue 'prudently' to prevent a dangerous conflict, while Mr. Trump characterized the call as being focused almost entirely on trade. China has responded angrily to remarks by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth last week urging America's Asian allies to work with the United States to deter China from trying to seize Taiwan, a self-governed island democracy. Mr. Trump and Mr. Xi did agree that both sides would work once again to implement the agreement from last month and that further talks for a more permanent deal would proceed. Mr. Trump also said the talks with China will now include Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, in addition to Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent and Jamieson Greer, the US Trade Representative. And Mr. Xi urged the United States to withdraw 'negative measures' against China. 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