Reactions in Taiwan as China stages drill around island

HSINCHU, TAIWAN - OCTOBER 14: A Taiwanese Air Force Mirage 2000 fighter jet armed with missiles scrambles from the Hsinchu Air Base, following China's announcement of the military exercise Joint Sword-2024B that encircles Taiwan, in Hsinchu, Taiwan on October 14, 2024. The military exercises mobilizing the Chinese PLA Navy, Army, Air Force and the Chinese Coast Guards, which are deemed as a punishment to Taiwan's call for independence, come following a speech by Taiwanese President William Lai (Lai Ching-te) on the October 10 National Day. In response, the Taiwan Ministry of National Defense said its armed forces have been deployed to monitor and will brace for unfolding developments. (Photo by Daniel Ceng/Anadolu via Getty Images)