"Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian called the latest multi-service military drills near Taiwan a 'severe punishment' for 'separatist forces' and described exercises as a necessary measure to ensure Beijing's national security. "The military exercises conducted by the Chinese People's Liberation Army are a severe punishment for the 'Taiwan independence' separatist forces' attempts to seek independence through force," he said during a regular press conference in Beijing on Monday. "I want to emphasise that the DPP authorities stubbornly adhere to the 'Taiwan independence' stance, attempting to seek independence by relying on the US, and are willing to turn Taiwan into a 'powder keg' and 'ammunition depot,' fully exposing their vicious faces as peace destroyers, troublemakers, and war instigators," he added. He also emphasised that any attempts by 'external forces' to arm Taipei will push "the Taiwan Strait to a dangerous state of war." "Any provocative actions that cross the line on the Taiwan issue will be met with a resolute response from China," he concluded. The 'Justice Mission 2025' drills follow an $11.1bln US-Taiwan sale agreement under which Washington will provide Taipei with rocket launchers, missiles and other arms. Beijing criticised the sale as "undermining China's sovereignty, security, and territorial integrity." The spokesperson also addressed the China-brokered 72-hour ceasefire between Thailand and Cambodia signed on December 27. Lin emphasised Beijing's support for the peaceful settlement of the ongoing crises and readiness to 'provide all necessary assistance' for it. "A press communique was issued, clarifying in five aspects that Cambodia and Thailand will further strengthen communication and understanding, gradually consolidate the ceasefire, restore mutual exchanges, rebuild political mutual trust, achieve a turnaround in relations, and realise regional peace," he said. However, on Monday, Thailand officially accused Cambodia of violating the agreement. The country's Royal Army issued a statement saying that Cambodia 'breached' the agreement after launching more than 250 UAVs into the territory of the kingdom. The Foreign Minister of Cambodia, Prak Sokhonn, who is currently in China for talks with Wang Yi, downplayed the incident, describing it as a 'small issue.' The initial 72-hour truce is expected to expire on Tuesday at 12:00 local time."