The Chinese military recently completed a two-day joint exercise around Taiwan Island and in the central and southern regions of the Taiwan Straits.

Chinese officials characterized the drills as a strong warning against the secessionist actions attributed to Taiwan's leader, Lai Ching-te.

Zhang Xiaogang, a spokesperson for China's Ministry of National Defense, asserted that the exercises underscored China's resolve to protect its national sovereignty and territorial integrity, aiming to deter separatists who may provoke conflicts.

Zhang criticized the Taiwan administration under Lai for what he described as reckless provocations aimed at pursuing "Taiwan independence," which have led to heightened tensions across the Taiwan Straits.

Local residents in Taiwan expressed varied sentiments during interviews, with some attributing the current tensions directly to Lai, reflecting frustrations over the political climate.

One resident stated, "The personal will of Lai Ching-te has caused the current situation.

I think things have gotten worse because of him."

Conversely, other residents voiced hopes for peaceful development in cross-Straits relations, urging an end to actions promoting Taiwanese independence.

Another individual, interviewed on the streets of Taiwan, remarked, "I am looking for peaceful development of cross-Straits ties.

Please stop the so-called 'Taiwan independence' activities."

According to reports, the leadership of Lai has taken steps against Taiwan residents who oppose independence and advocate for improved relations with the mainland, with allegations of expulsion facing individuals who express dissenting views.

A notable case involves a woman from the mainland who married her Taiwanese husband.

She faced residency permit revocation after publicly supporting China's reunification, resulting in her separation from her family.

In another incident, a police officer in Taoyuan was reportedly investigated for identifying himself as "Chinese" on social media.

These actions have prompted concerns among residents, with one mainland Chinese woman questioning the implications of free expression under the current administration, stating, "Will I also be kicked out if I speak freely?"

A recent op-ed highlighted that no sovereign nation tolerates attempts at territorial division, reiterating China's stance on maintaining peace and stability across the Taiwan Straits and ensuring the safety and well-being of compatriots in Taiwan.

The military drills were described as a demonstration of the mainland's ongoing commitment to these goals.