China military encircles Taiwan in ‘warning’ drills

China deployed fighter jets and warships to encircle Taiwan on Monday, in drills Beijing said were aimed at sending a “stern warning” to “separatist” forces on the self-ruled island.

Beijing has not ruled out using force to bring Taiwan under its control and Monday’s drills represent its fourth round of large-scale war games in the past two years.

The United States said China’s actions were “unwarranted” and risk “escalation” as it called on Beijing to act with restraint.

Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te...