Taiwan detects eight Chinese balloons crossing the Taiwan Strait, five entering Taiwan airspace. Tensions rise as Taiwan accuses China of aviation safety threat and psychological warfare. China dismisses complaints, citing meteorological purposes. Amid Lunar New Year holiday, both sides remain silent. Chinese warplanes continue Taiwan Strait operations. Taiwan elects new president, offers talks with China. Global concerns over China s use of balloons for spying after US incident last year.
Taiwan s defense ministry has called on China to cease "destructive, unilateral action" following a significant increase in Chinese military activities near the island. The ministry reported 103 Chinese military aircraft in the region, with fighter jets crossing the unofficial barrier of the Taiwan Strait and other aircraft flying south of Taiwan through the Bashi Channel. The ministry warned that such behavior could lead to heightened tensions and urged China to take responsibility and halt these actions.
Taiwan's defence ministry said 19 J-10 Chinese air force planes entered its air defense zone this week, as part of a campaign described by Taipei as regular harassment by Beijing