China Conducts 'Punishment' Drills Around Taiwan After New President's Inauguration

China has launched two days of military drills encircling Taiwan, vowing severe consequences for "independence forces" on the island. The exercises, involving naval vessels and aircraft, come in response to Taiwan's new president Lai Ching-te's inauguration speech, which China denounced as a declaration of independence. Taiwan has responded by deploying its own military forces, with President Lai affirming the island's commitment to defending its freedom and democracy. The drills are part of China's ongoing campaign to pressure Taiwan, which it views as a renegade province.