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The Chinese government has confirmed it carried out combat drills involving strategic bombers near Taiwan ahead of talks between Presidents Trump and Xi.

Some shit you should know before you dig in: Despite what some headlines might say, it’s pretty common for China to conduct military drills around Taiwan as a form of intimidation. These exercises often include both naval and air force operations, with Chinese fighter jets and surveillance aircraft frequently entering Taiwan’s Air Defense Identification Zone (ADIZ). Such incursions prompt Taiwan to scramble its own jets in response, creating a near-daily rhythm of tension across the Taiwan Strait. While this is normal, it’s less common to see strategic bombers capable of carrying nuclear payloads participating in the drills.

What’s going on now: Chinese state-controlled media reported that multiple H-6K strategic bombers, accompanied by J-10 fighter jets, carried out simulated “confrontation drills” in the waters and airspace surrounding Taiwan. These exercises, according to China’s military channel on Weibo, were organized by the Eastern Theatre Command and focused on testing the PLA’s capabilities in reconnaissance, early warning, air blockades, and precision strikes. A video released by Chinese state media showed bombs being dropped from the aircraft, with one pilot stating that “the coast of Taiwan can be clearly made out.” The Chinese government framed the drills as part of its routine “combat-oriented training” and stressed its commitment to defending national sovereignty and territorial integrity.

The timing of the announcement came ahead of the planned meeting between President Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping in South Korea. There’s been some concern in Taiwan that Xi will push Trump on concessions related to the US stance on Taiwan in return for a trade deal and for purchasing soybeans from US farmers. Despite these concerns, top US officials have downplayed Taipei’s concerns and said they have nothing to worry about.

While speaking to reporters, Secretary Rubio said, “I don’t think you’re going to see some trade deal where, if what people are worried about is we’re going to get some trade deal, or we’re going to get favorable treatment on trade in exchange for walking away from Taiwan,” Rubio said. “No one is contemplating that.”