TAIPEI (Taiwan News) – The American Institute in Taiwan condemned the latest Chinese military drills Tuesday for exacerbating tensions and undermining peace in the Taiwan Strait.

Beijing announced Tuesday morning it was holding the maneuvers by its navy in conjunction with the army and rocket force. Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defense said it had spotted the Chinese aircraft carrier Shandong near its waters.

The American Institute in Taiwan said China should not conduct irresponsible threats in Taiwan’s vicinity, per CNA. It emphasized risks to regional security and prosperity.

The US will continue to support Taiwan in the face of military, economic, digital, and diplomatic pressure from China, the statement said.

Beijing said the drills closed in on Taiwan from multiple directions. Their focus included blockades, strikes on maritime and land targets, seizure of control, and sea-air combat readiness patrols, the People’s Liberation Army said.