In a provocative move, China sent at least 71 planes and nine ships across the median line of the Taiwan Strait on Saturday morning, as confirmed by Taiwan's defense ministry. 

This comes just days after Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen meets with the speaker of the US House of Representatives in Los Angeles, which has further strained the already tense relations between China and Taiwan.

According to the Independent, China, which considers Taiwan as its own territory, issued a "serious warning" to Taiwan. And accused it of colluding with external forces and seeking independence. Taiwan refutes China's claim and condemns the irrational actions, stating that it will defend its national security with solid combat readiness.

The timing of China's military exercises is seen as a response to President Tsai's visit to the US. And her meeting last week with US officials, including Michael McCaul, the chairman of the US House Foreign Affairs Committee. 

McCaul expressed his support for Taiwan's security cooperation with the US, which has further irked China and led to additional sanctions against the US.

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China escalates conflict

In addition to the military drills, China has imposed sanctions on Taiwan's de facto ambassador to the US, as well as on the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and the Hudson Institute, a Washington think tank. 

China accuses these organizations of providing a platform for Taiwan separatist activities and has prohibited Chinese institutions from cooperating or contacting them. 

Several individuals associated with these organizations, including Sarah May Stern, John P Walters, John Heubusch, and Joanne M Drake, have also been sanctioned by China, facing travel bans and frozen assets in the country.

The escalation of tensions between China and Taiwan is a cause for concern in the region, as it threatens regional peace, stability, and security. 

The situation has drawn international attention, with many countries expressing support for Taiwan's democracy and peace-seeking stance. The US has reiterated its commitment to Taiwan's security and has condemned China's aggressive actions.

Using military force and sanctions seems to have heightened tensions and increased the risk of conflict.