China Defense Chief Reiterates Threat of Force Against Taiwanese Independence

Chinese Defence Minister Dong Jun has made several statements recently regarding Taiwan's independence and relations with China. He accused Taiwanese "separatists" of pursuing separatism and stated that Taiwan was the "core of core issues" for China, implying that it is a crucial matter for Beijing. Dong also accused Taiwan's ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) of working to erase Chinese identity. In another statement, Dong warned that Beijing's military is ready to "forcefully" stop Taiwan independence, with some reports suggesting this could involve the use of force. This warning comes after China held military drills around self-ruled Taiwan and following the inauguration of new Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te.