China’s President Xi Jinping has once again signalled Beijing’s determination to bring Taiwan under its control, declaring that reunification with the island is “unstoppable” in his New Year’s Eve address. The strong message came just a day after China wrapped up some of its most intense military drills around Taiwan in recent years.
Speaking in Beijing, Xi said the reunification of what he called the “motherland” was part of the tide of history. China considers Taiwan a breakaway province and has repeatedly warned that it will use force if necessary to take control of the self-governing island.
The remarks followed large-scale military exercises by the People’s Liberation Army on Monday and Tuesday. The drills, named Justice Mission 2025, involved the navy, air force, rocket force and coastguard, and simulated a blockade of key Taiwanese ports. Taiwan said at least 200 Chinese warplanes were involved over two days, along with missile launches close to its coastline.
Although the drills officially ended on Wednesday, Taiwan remained on high alert. Chinese naval and coast guard vessels continued to operate near the island, and surveillance balloons were also reported in the area.
Analysts say the exercises were partly linked to a recent US decision to approve a record $11bn arms sale to Taiwan. Several countries, including the US, UK, Japan, Australia and the EU, criticised China’s military actions, prompting strong protests from Beijing.
Xi’s speech also highlighted China’s diplomatic outreach and technological progress, while state media aired visuals of a major military parade held earlier this year, underlining Beijing’s growing military confidence.
In a separate New Year’s Day address, Taiwan President Lai Ching-te warned of China’s expanding military ambitions and pledged to defend Taiwan’s sovereignty.
The renewed rhetoric on both sides points to continued tension in the Taiwan Strait as 2026 begins.