China Sends Fighter Jets Into Taiwan's Air Defense Zone As it Warns US Against 'Collusion'

A Chinese J-10 fighter jet. Photo courtesy of the Ministry of National Defense  

Reuters: Taiwan slams 'provocative' China for sending fighters across Taiwan Strait 

TAIPEI/BEIJING (Reuters) - Chinese fighter jets crossed the median line of the sensitive Taiwan Strait on Friday in what the island's government slammed as a provocation, as a senior U.S. senator visited Taipei for a meeting with President Tsai Ing-wen that China condemned. 

China claims democratically-ruled Taiwan as its own territory and has ramped up military and political pressure to try and force the island to accept Chinese rule. 

Taiwan's Defence Ministry said the Chinese aircraft "intentionally crossed the median line of the strait in a provocative move, which has seriously damaged regional peace and stability".  

Read more .... 

WNU Editor: China says a recent US Senator's visit is the reason for this exercise .... PLA holds joint drills around Taiwan over US senator visit: Chinese military (Global Times). 

Update: More threats from Beijing .... Chinese diplomat says 'reunification' with Taiwan near, cites China's 'growing comprehensive strength' (FOX News). 

China Sends Fighter Jets Into Taiwan's Air Defense Zone As it Warns US Against 'Collusion'  

Taiwan condemns China after warplanes breach median line -- Focus Taiwan  

China stages new military drills around Taiwan as it warns US against 'collusion' -- The Independent  

Nine Chinese warplanes enter Taiwan’s air defense zone — island’s defense ministry -- TASS  

China warns US over ‘wanton provocation’, holds drills around Taiwan -- Hindustan Times