Record eight Chinese balloons detected near Taiwan, eight over the island
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Taipei: Taiwan's defense ministry revealed the detection of a record eight Chinese balloons in proximity to the island, with two of them directly traversing its airspace.
This incident occurred on Friday, just before the commencement of the Lunar New Year holiday.
The ministry reported that the balloons were detected at altitudes ranging from 15,000 feet (4,572 meters) to 38,000 feet, marking the highest number of such sightings since the ministry began routinely disclosing balloon-related data in December, reported AFP.
China continues to assert its claim over democratic Taiwan, considering it an integral part of its territory, and maintains its stance on not renouncing the use of force to bring the self-governed island under its control. In recent years, Beijing has intensified military pressure, frequently deploying warplanes and naval vessels around Taiwan.
While balloon sightings are not a new phenomenon, the surge in their numbers raises concerns and it follows the presidential election in Taiwan last month.
The election, won by the Democratic Progressive Party's Lai Ching-te, was viewed critically by Beijing, labeling Lai as a "separatist." China had warned of potential consequences, predicting "war and decline" if Lai secured victory.
Despite the heated rhetoric, China refrained from an immediate escalation in military activities post-election.
Notably, the largest incursions around Taiwan since the January 13 vote included the detection of 33 Chinese warplanes, according to Taipei. The highest number of warplanes sent by China within 24 hours occurred in September when Taiwan recorded 103 Chinese aircraft operating close to the island.
