Cross-Strait Tensions Escalate: Taiwan’s Leader Asserts Sovereignty in Defiant Double Tenth Speech Amid PLA Military Maneuvers

Beijing criticizes Lai's Double Tenth address, claiming the mainland has no control over the island.

On Thursday, Taipei announced that the People's Liberation Army dispatched a minimum of 27 aircraft to monitor the northern, western, and southwestern regions of the island.

On Thursday, Taipei announced that the People's Liberation Army dispatched a minimum of 27 aircraft to monitor the northern, western, and southwestern regions of the island.

"On Thursday, commemorating the 113th anniversary of the establishment of the Republic of China, Lai stated, 'The Republic of China [the island's formal name] has firmly established itself in Taiwan, Quemoy, Matsu, and Penghu, and does not fall under the jurisdiction of the People’s Republic of China,'"

"In this territory, democratic values and liberties are flourishing. The People’s Republic of China does not have the authority to speak for Taiwan."

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In his Double Tenth address, Taiwan's leader William Lai declared that Beijing holds no control over the island.

He advocated for "constructive and systematic communication between both parties," stating his intention to preserve the current state of affairs across the strait while reaffirming his dedication to opposing any takeover or infringement on our sovereignty.