The Chinese military announced that it conducted military drills near Taiwan Thursday morning.

China's Eastern Theater Command said the exercises began at 7: 45 a.m. local time near Kinmen Island and in other areas.
It also said the military drills will be held Thursday and Friday. Chinese army, navy, air force and rocket forces are participating.
The command described those seeking Taiwan independence as a splinter group. It said the drills are a strong warning against interference by outside forces and splinter groups.

The Chinese military has previously said it conducted drills around Taiwan. It announced such exercises when former Taiwanese President Tsai Ing-wen stayed in the US last year and when current President Lai Ching-te visited the US as vice president in August last year.

China is stepping up pressure on Taiwan's administration. President Lai, who took office on Monday, said he will not recognize the "one-China principle."