Chinese Bombers Conduct Near Taiwan Ahead of Xi–Trump Meeting in South Korea

A group of Chinese H-6K bombers carried out “confrontation drills” near Taiwan, according to reports by Chinese state media late Sunday — just days before an anticipated meeting between Chinese President Xi Jinping and US President Donald Trump in South Korea.

The Eastern Theatre Command of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) organized the combat-oriented exercises to test operational readiness in areas such as air blockades and precision strikes, state television reported.

According to the report, J-10 fighter jets and H-6K strategic bombers, capable of carrying nuclear weapons, participated in the drills. The aircraft reportedly simulated strike missions around the waters and airspace near Taiwan, although no specific date or location was disclosed.

Chinese state media emphasized that defending national sovereignty and territorial integrity remains a “solemn commitment,” sharing footage of bombs being dropped during the exercise.

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Taiwan’s defense ministry said it had not detected any unusual activity but noted that four Chinese aircraft—three fighters and one support plane—were observed in the Taiwan Strait and nearby airspace within the past 24 hours.

Xi–Trump Meeting Expected in South Korea

The timing of the drills coincides with the upcoming regional summit in South Korea, where Presidents Xi Jinping and Donald Trump are expected to meet on the sidelines to discuss ongoing US-China trade tensions.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated on Sunday that Taiwan should not be worried about the upcoming talks, reaffirming US support for the island’s defense under existing law.

Taiwan Reaffirms Its Defense Policy

In a televised interview, Taiwan President Lai Ching-te reiterated that peace “must be based on strength,” underscoring his government’s commitment to increasing defense spending. Lai also stated that Taiwan’s future “can only be decided by its people,” while China continues to brand him a “separatist.”

Marking the 80th anniversary of Taiwan’s handover from Japan to China, a senior Chinese official urged “peaceful reunification” with the island — a message that contrasts sharply with the PLA’s recent military posture.