China military to hold live fire exercises off Taiwan coast after Pelosi’s arrival in Taipei

A demonstrator rips up a US flag during a protest (REUTERS)

Beijing has announced its military will hold live fire exercises off the coast of Taiwan.

The announcement from China came within an hour of Nancy Pelosi touching down in Taipei, despite fierce oppisition to the trip from Beijing.

The Chinese military has been put on high alert and will launch “targeted military operations” in response to the visit, China’s defence ministry said.

Separately, the People’s Liberation Army’s Eastern Theatre Command said it will conduct joint military operations near Taiwan from Tuesday night, and will test-launch conventional missiles in the sea east of Taiwan.

The exercises will include joint air and sea drills in the north, southwest, northeast of Taiwan, long range live firing in the Taiwan Strait, and missiles test-launches in the sea east of Taiwan, the Eastern Theatre Command said.

They have accused the US House Speaker of provocation. Ms Pelosi is the first House Leader to visit Taiwan since 1997.

Russia has also joined the condemnation of the senior American politician.

After landing, Ms Pelosi tweeted: “Our delegation’s visit to Taiwan honors America’s unwavering commitment to supporting Taiwan’s vibrant Democracy.

“Our discussions with Taiwan leadership reaffirm our support for our partner & promote our shared interests, including advancing a free & open Indo-Pacific region.”

The US Navy has deployed four warships east of Taiwan.

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