Beijing say the drills are a “strong punishment” for “separatist acts,” three days after Taiwan’s new President Lai Ching-te was sworn in. Taiwan has condemned the “irrational provocations.”

Chinese naval vessels and military aircraft encircled Taiwan as Beijing conducted joint military drills  on Thursday following the inauguration of Taiwan’s new President Lai Ching-te.

In the past, Beijing has called Lai a “dangerous separatist” who will bring “war and decline” to the region.

Taiwan’s Defense Ministry said the “irrational provocation has jeopardized regional peace and stability.”