China has launched two days of punitive military exercises around Taiwan on Thursday, May 23, according to Reuters. According to China, military actions involving the army, navy, air force, and missile forces in areas around Taiwan began at 7:45 local time. They are being conducted in the Taiwan Strait, to the north, south, and east of Taiwan, as well as in areas around the Taiwan-controlled islands of Kinmen, Matsu, Wuqiu, and Dongyin. “This is also a strong punishment for the separatist acts of Taiwan independence forces and a stern warning against the interference and provocation by externa…