Taiwan Conducts Live-Fire Drill on Kinmen Ahead of Xi-Trump Summit

Taiwan executed a large-scale live-fire military exercise on Kinmen island, located just kilometers from mainland China, shortly before US President Donald Trump's arrival in Beijing for high-stakes talks with Chinese leader Xi Jinping. The drill, conducted by the Kinmen Defence Command in the Houhu coastal area, simulated a People’s Liberation Army amphibious assault. It featured the deployment of artillery, tanks, armored vehicles, and drones, alongside the first live firing of US-made Javelin anti-tank missiles stationed on the island. This display of asymmetric warfare capabilities aims to strengthen Taiwan's defense posture amid heightened regional tensions. The timing of the exercise reflects growing anxiety in Taipei that Taiwan could become a bargaining chip in broader US-China negotiations, particularly after Trump suggested that US arms sales to the island might be subject to discussion. The summit between Xi and Trump has intensified fears regarding the potential trade-off of strategic interests, prompting Taiwan to demonstrate its military readiness and resolve through this significant frontline demonstration involving multiple battalions and advanced command systems.