The Chinese military conducted large-scale drills around Taiwan in what it said was a “stern warning” to pro-independence forces on the Beijing-claimed island.

The Chinese People's Liberation Army initiated large-scale military manoeuvres around Taiwan on Tuesday, involving all branches of the military. These exercises aim to simulate a blockade of the island and strikes on both maritime and land targets.

One analyst called China’s large-scale drills a “pre-invasion operation” as it ramps up attacks on Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te, calling him a “parasite.”