China has sent the aircraft carrier Liaoning to conduct exercises near Taiwan
The Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) Navy dispatched an aircraft carrier strike group led by the aircraft carrier Liaoning to the western Pacific Ocean to conduct exercises on May 20. The maneuvers are taking place against the backdrop of the second anniversary of Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te's inauguration.
CGTN reported on the deployment of the warship squadron.
The PLA Navy stated that the exercises will include long-range tactical flights by the aircraft carrier’s aircraft, live-fire drills, support and cover operations, as well as comprehensive rescue drills aimed at testing and enhancing the combat readiness of the naval task force.
The Chinese military separately emphasized that the exercises are routine and organized in accordance with the annual plan and fully comply with international law and practice.
The Chinese media report makes no mention of Taiwan, which is located in the western Pacific Ocean and where, on the same day, May 20, will mark the second anniversary of the inauguration of President Lai Ching-te, a representative of the Democratic Progressive Party, which aims for Taiwan to achieve independence and international recognition as a sovereign state.
Beijing harshly criticizes Lai for his government’s policies, calls him a separatist, and conducts military exercises to demonstrate its strength during every event similar to the anniversary of the inauguration of the democratically elected Taiwanese leader.
China has been hit byheavy rains and flooding, resulting in fatalities.
Earlier in Turkey, heavy rains caused widespread flooding in areas near the Black Sea coast. The water flooded homes and businesses and swept away cars. According to local authorities, 12 people have been hospitalized.
Earlier, the storm cut power to more than 100 settlements in Ukraine.
As a reminder, in Kherson, the Central and Korabelny districts of the city were partially left without power as a result of Russian shelling.
Ukrenergo has announced whether power will be cut on April 26.
