China’s military launched joint drills near Taiwan, calling them a “stern warning” against pro-independence moves by President Lai Ching-te.

The exercises, involving the army, navy, and rocket forces, simulated assaults and blockades.

Beijing views Taiwan as its territory and has escalated military pressure since Lai took office.

The drills follow U.S. pledges to strengthen military ties in the region to counter China, CNBC has reported.

Taiwan’s defense ministry reported 19 Chinese ships near the island and activated its military response.

Written by B.C. Begley