China sent a drone to Taiwan-controlled Kinmen Island after increasing its military activity in the region following the visit of US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi to Taiwan on August 2-3. Taiwanese soldiers attempted to drop the drone by throwing stones after realizing they were being watched. Following the widespread distribution of the images on social media, the Taiwan Ministry of Defense emphasized that officers and soldiers at all levels will continue to implement vigilance in accordance with the principle of “not escalating conflicts or causing disputes.” The Taiwanese government will deploy anti-drone systems, beginning with smaller islands next year, the ministry said.
China announced a new exercise in the region, stating that real ammunition would be used in the exercise, which will take place on the coast of Fujian province, across Taiwan, on August 26-27.